Family Ties with Lela Cross from The Pacific NorthWest

The Voice4Chefs Podcast

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"In today's episode, we delve into Chef Lela's remarkable journey, uncovering the roots of her culinary prowess within her vibrant upbringing among a close-knit family. Discover how her early experiences shaped her palate and ignited a passion for crafting exquisite cuisines. This fervor propelled her into the realms of becoming a Chef, Food and Beverage Director, and Restaurateur, where she honed her skills under the guidance of mentors like Tom Douglas and catered for notable figures like Robert Redford.
**Meet Lela Cross**
- A seasoned chef, consultant, author, and influential figure in the culinary landscape.
- Join Lela as she reflects on nearly four decades of adventures within the food industry.
- Explore her cultural heritage, steeped in the traditions of Spanish family gatherings and flavors, shaping her culinary identity.".
**Early Connections with Food**
- Recalling vivid memories of watching her grandmother make tortillas from scratch as a child in Mexico.
- Lela's upbringing surrounded by a plethora of food choices within a large family.
- A fusion of Spanish traditional dishes and Southern soul food due to her father's background.
**A Culinary Journey Unfolds**
- Initially pursuing pre-law in college, Lela discovered her passion for cooking while working at a restaurant.
- Her segue into culinary school, her professional ventures across various locations, including Olympia and Washington.
- Mentoring experiences with influential figures like Tom Douglas and the journey of owning and managing restaurants.
**Navigating the Pandemic and Community Involvement**
- Discussing the challenges faced during the pandemic and how Lela coped by staying connected and engaged with her community.
- Her deep involvement in supporting local initiatives, working on a farm, and nurturing partnerships within Olympia.
**Upcoming Ventures: "Gather" Cookbook & Seattle Distilling**
- Lela offers a sneak peek into her upcoming cookbook, "Gather," emphasizing the importance of relationships and shared experiences.
- Teasing the launch of a new venture, Seattle Distilling, showcasing a diverse range of spirits like whiskey, rye, brandy, gin, and vodka.
**Favorite Ingredients and Culinary Adventures**
- Lela's love for working with salmon, grits, and corn, reflecting both childhood memories and creative exploration.
- Sharing memorable culinary experiences, including gatherings with families in Costa Rica and the immersive dining scene in Alajuela.
**Supporting Lela and Embracing Food Culture**
- Lela encourages supporting her upcoming venture and staying tuned for the launch of Seattle Distilling.
Connect to Lela: https://www.lelacross.com/
Season2

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