Proud graduate of Le Cordon Bleu in Pasadena, but my love for cooking began long before that—watching my grandmother in the kitchen after being raised by my grandparents.

In addition to my time in restaurants, I’ve worked as a private chef and caterer. Today, I’m excited to share everything I’ve learned with students at Kitchen Fantasy. My goal is to make cooking approachable, fun, and something you genuinely enjoy.

Bio:
With over four decades of culinary experience, Chef Robert Finalet is a classically trained chef whose career spans luxury hotels and prestigious country clubs. His expertise lies in classic cuisine, the diverse flavors of the Americas, and the rich tapestry of regional American dishes.

Chef Robert is more than a culinary artist—he is also a seasoned event planner who collaborates with fellow chefs and designers to craft unforgettable dining experiences, from intimate dinners to grand celebrations. His passion for both savory and sweet creations is matched by his dedication to mentoring hobbyists and aspiring chefs alike.

Deeply inspired by Latin cuisines, Chef Robert infuses his dishes with vibrant flavors and cultural depth, always striving to educate, inspire, and elevate through food.

Ernie Rodriguez
With a passion for knife sharpening that started at age 12, Ernie is Kitchen Fantasy’s lead sharpening expert, known for his commitment to an impeccable edge on all types of knives and scissors. His early experience in the restaurant industry helped refine his culinary skills and sparked a dedication to healthy, home-cooked meals. Today, Ernie combines his love for healthy living, knife sharpening, and sushi-making in the classes he frequently leads at Kitchen Fantasy, sharing his expertise and enthusiasm with every participant.

Andre is an integral part of the team at Kitchen Fantasy, where he not only teaches engaging cooking classes but also excels as one of our top knife and scissor sharpeners. His dedication to craftsmanship mirrors that of his mentor, Ernie Rodriguez, as Andre ensures that every blade he sharpens is honed to a better-than-factory edge..

Meet Apprentice Chef Maddie!
Maddie has been a valuable part of Kitchen Fantasy for many years as our dedicated kitchen helper, and now she’s pursuing her dream of becoming a professional chef. After assisting in hundreds of classes under various chefs, Maddie has been inspired to pursue her culinary degree and turn her passion into a career.

Ruth plays an essential role at Kitchen Fantasy, overseeing every aspect of the store with passion and precision. From correcting the owner’s typos and scheduling errors to expertly and artistically merchandising the shop, Ruth ensures that everything runs smoothly. Her love for cooking and organization shines through in her work, creating an exciting and enjoyable customer experience