Our Team
Chef Gina is the heart and foundation of Willow & Rye. With decades of hands-on culinary and operational experience, she leads every aspect of the brand with intention, precision, and an uncompromising commitment to quality.
Known for her from-scratch, organic approach and refined yet approachable style, Chef Gina believes food should nourish, comfort, and connect—without shortcuts. Her leadership sets the standard for everything Willow & Rye creates, from intimate in-home dining to large-scale events and curated culinary programs.
Founder/CEOExecutive Chef
Chef Gina
Chef Kaeleb
Founder/VP/CFO
Executive Chef
Kaeleb is the creative engine behind Willow & Rye, with a deep passion for baking and designing one-of-a-kind dining experiences. He approaches food as both craft and storytelling—focused on how each detail makes people feel.
His creativity influences everything from flavor development to guest experience, ensuring every Willow & Rye moment is intentional, elevated, and memorable.
Nick’s culinary journey began long before formal training—working side by side with Chef Gina from the earliest days. As her oldest son, he was raised in professional kitchens where standards, technique, and intention were non-negotiable.
With the same creative drive and commitment to quality, Nick is developing his own voice while carrying forward the foundation that Willow & Rye was built on. His focus is on growth, leadership, and crafting meaningful dining experiences rooted in tradition and care.
Sous Chef
Nicholas Benitez
is a lifelong baker whose passion began at an early age, working alongside Chef Gina from the time she was just three years old. As Chef Gina’s daughter, she was raised in kitchens where creativity, technique, and high standards were part of everyday life.
Naturally drawn to baking, she has developed a deep love for creating beautiful, delicious cakes, cookies, and handcrafted baked goods. Her work blends artistry with precision, bringing warmth, care, and visual appeal to everything she creates. Through patience and practice, she continues to refine her skills while helping carry forward the tradition and quality that define Willow & Rye.
Baker