Meet the Chef Behind Cellar Hand’s Mediterranean-Inspired Magic
Cellar Hand’s Executive Chef, Ashley McBrady, is putting her stamp on San Diego’s dining scene with a hyper-local, Mediterranean-inspired menu that celebrates the region’s farmers and fishers. Her innovative approach and thoughtful pairings are turning the restaurant into a must-visit destination for food lovers.
A San Diego Native with Global Inspiration
Ashley’s culinary journey began in Imperial Beach, where she worked alongside her family at Ten Pound Buns, their sourdough bread business that was a fixture at local fairs and markets.
From there, her passion for food took her across the country, refining her skills in some of Portland’s most celebrated kitchens and drawing inspiration from touring the U.S. with musicians.
In Colorado, Ashley’s career reached new heights under Teri Ripetto at Potager, a trailblazer in farm-to-table dining. Her inventive dishes earned her a Chef of the Year nomination and acclaim for her work at 12@Madison, along with a devoted following for her Siesta Supper Club pop-ups.
A Return to Southern California Roots
In 2020, Ashley returned to Southern California, bringing her extensive experience back home. Before joining Cellar Hand, she served as a private chef, kitchen director, and consultant, including work on the Loma Club’s restaurant.
Now, at Cellar Hand, Ashley combines her deep connection to local ingredients with her Mediterranean-inspired vision. Her menu highlights seasonal flavors and creative techniques, offering dishes like:
- Chicken liver mousse with orange wine gelée
- Mussels en escabeche with house-made Ritz-style crackers
A Dining Experience Rooted in San Diego
Ashley’s thoughtful approach ensures every dish pairs beautifully with Cellar Hand’s curated wine list, creating a dining experience that’s as creative as it is rooted in San Diego’s vibrant food culture.
Her passion for seasonal ingredients and community connection shines through in every bite, making Cellar Hand a true reflection of the city’s culinary richness.
If you’re looking to explore San Diego’s dining scene, Cellar Hand’s innovative menu and Chef Ashley McBrady’s culinary artistry make it a perfect choice.
See you there!
Join us at Cellar Hand in San Diego and savor the artistry of Chef Ashley McBrady’s Mediterranean-inspired menu.
Reservations are recommended to ensure your spot at this exciting dining destination. For more info and to book a table, visit the website here and follow along on Instagram for updates.
See you there, San Diego!
