Santa Barbara’s most flavorful week of the year is almost here, and I’m thrilled to take you behind the scenes. As Director of the Santa Barbara Culinary Experience and creator of Petite Wine Traveler, I’m bringing you exclusive interviews with the incredible chefs, winemakers, artisans, and culinary creatives behind this year’s lineup. This week, I sat down with Mitchell Sjerven, a distinguished member of the SBCE Advisory Committee and owner of bouchon Santa Barbara, a beloved wine country dining destination in the heart of downtown. With over 35 years in the restaurant industry, Sjerven also shares his expertise as a faculty member at Santa Barbara City College, where he teaches aspiring restaurateurs the art and grit of restaurant ownership.
What inspired you to participate in the Santa Barbara Culinary Experience this year?
I wouldn’t miss it for the world! The community surrounding the Julia Child Foundation celebrates everything Julia [Child] stood for — bringing people together through food, wine, and genuine hospitality. The diversity and quality of the SBCE events are, in my opinion, unmatched in Santa Barbara. It’s truly a special week filled with flavor, camaraderie, and unforgettable moments.
Can you share a little about what you’ll be offering or showcasing during the event — and what makes it special to you?…