About Ember + Spice

At Ember + Spice, food is more than a meal, it’s an experience meant to be shared. Founded in San Diego by local Chef Steve Ramirez and Becky Branch, Ember + Spice blends culinary craft with creative vision to bring people together through unforgettable meals.

With over 15 years of experience in top California kitchens, Chef Steve is the heart of Ember + Spice’s flavors. Mentored by some of the region’s most respected chefs, he brings a farm-to-table philosophy to every dish, celebrating fresh, locally sourced ingredients and the soulful tradition of live-fire cooking.

Becky, a marketing expert and creative entrepreneur, adds the spark behind the brand, shaping how Ember + Spice connects with the community and ensuring every event feels as thoughtful as it tastes. Together, their shared passion for food, people, and storytelling is what makes Ember + Spice more than just catering, it’s an experience.From intimate gatherings to large celebrations, we’re here to make your event unforgettable, one bite at a time.

Chef Steve Ramirez, a San Diego native, has emerged as a defining force in California cuisine over his 15-year career. Growing up with the Pacific Ocean as his backyard, Ramirez developed a deep appreciation for fresh, local ingredients, setting the stage for his culinary ethos.

Under the mentorship of culinary luminaries Trey Foshe, Carl Schroeder, Chris Osborne, and Brian Malarkey, Ramirez honed his skills and embraced a farm-to-table philosophy. This approach, centered on sustainability and the seamless connection between local farms and the kitchen, became the cornerstone of his culinary style.

Ramirez's dishes, celebrated for their simplicity and respect for natural flavors, reflect his commitment to showcasing high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. Through his leadership in some of California's most esteemed kitchens, Ramirez has not only elevated the farm-to-table movement but also set new standards for California cuisine.

Today, Chef Steve Ramirez continues to inspire with his dedication to culinary excellence and sustainability, proving that great cooking starts with great ingredients and a passion for connecting people to the land.