“If you were to tell me five years ago I was going to open a mochi doughnut shop, I’d be like, are you crazy?”

MAKfam is known for its modern take on Chinese and its use of MSG. But it may now become known for its chef being on Chopped.

“Garibaldi Mexican Bistro has been our labor of love for the past 11 years, and it’s been an honor to serve this community.”

The entrees included Picanha (Brazilian-style) A5 wagyu beef steak, and a top-notch blackened ahi tuna sashimi.

I began photographing my meals because it seemed like something Asians had started, and because I just love food so much.

After closing in the Baker neighborhood back in December, the 34-year-old eatery has finally reopened in a former home in the northern suburbs.

“We stayed in touch as colleagues and now here we are, coming full circle,” says Troy Guard.

The burritos are now available at 120 Safeways, as well as convenience stores and diners.

“It’s especially important…for our immigrant communities, who are often starting up this business and trying to live out their American dream on four wheels.”

“As the owner for the last 21 of those years, I’ve been in foreign countries and met people who have eaten at my restaurant.”

“Recognizing (my team) with a living wage was the number one thing as part of my business plan.”

This restaurant wasn’t about the food. It was about the experience.

A local mini-chain makes a breakfast sandwich that’s reason to rise and shine.

“I always knew I wanted to go back to doing tea. All my own tea blends and everything…I wanted to open up a little tea house, traditional tea.”

“We’re proud of what we and our team have achieved, connecting our community to Colorado’s farmers, ranchers and producers.”

“So we really pride ourselves on being a chef-driven neighborhood sandwich shop, but one of our key missions is really to just wow with unexpected flavors and friendliness.”

She was a refugee, community activist and victim of neighborhood violence; on May 2, her convicted shooter was sentenced to life in prison.

With two founders on the list of up-and-coming chefs, this is definitely a restaurant to watch.

I started my career at Westword and now I’m home again, filling in for Molly Martin while she’s out on medical leave.