Fortuna Chocolate

Sourced directly from individual growers in Mexico and hand-roasted in Boulder, Colorado, this single estate cacao is fermented and dried by each grower ensuring sophisticated flavor profiles and building upon thousands of years of traditional techniques. Fortuna Chocolate collaborates with Mayan growers at two single estates in a region of southwestern Mexico known as Xoconusco - an area that is highly prized among chefs the world over. Each estate uses different shade trees resulting in a unique combination of wild yeasts in the air during the fermentation process, adding complexity to every harvest.

Ingredient HighlightJake AhlesDecember 20, 2016artisan, artisanal, chocolate, mexico, boulder, colora, december 2016, alex seidelComment

Chef Eduardo Ruiz

Semi-Finalist, James Beard Foundation Awards "Rising Star Chef" 2014

Recipient, Zagat "30 Under 30" 2014

Chef, Chicas Tacos/Public Beer + Wine Shop, Los Angeles, CA

Chef FeatureJake AhlesOctober 5, 2016eduardo ruiz, october 2016, Los Angeles, mexicoComment

Kate Green

Kate Green may be famed chef Nancy Silverton's right hand but she's a culinary powerhouse in her own right. Her day-to-day includes overseeing VIP reservations, managing off-site events and planning social media for the Mozza Restaurant Group while at night she's a constant fixture on LA's dining scene - attending new restaurant openings, mingling with chefs and creating wakes with her radiant and infectious personality. We're privileged to call Kate a close friend and recently sat down with her to chat about her favorite seasonal ingredients, dining at the bar, and the best advice she's received from chef Mario Batali.

Guest Editor | Natalie James

A true Epicurean Adventurer, Natalie is an LA local, cataloging the best places to grab a bite both at home + abroad. From Mexico to Puerto Rico to back state-side, Natalie's photos speak for themselves. Read on as Natalie dishes on some of her favorite haunts, travel locations + shares some food photography tips. All photos courtesy of Natalie.