I was born in Russia and my family moved to the United States when I was two years old. I lived in San Diego/North County practically my whole life. I love baking sourdough bread, camping, backpacking into the wilderness, overland vehicle exploring and also spearfishing. Anything outdoors, really! I also enjoy researching and learning new techniques from chefs – old and new. I have been working in different kitchens for some time now and I have been lucky enough to have mentors and peers who believed in me and believed that I would succeed. It is my honor to lead this brigade and watch the growth of the future generations of chefs.