Garlic, Griddles, and Good Vibes: My Demo at the Gilroy Garlic Festival

Getting invited to demo cook at the Gilroy Garlic Festival was an incredible moment for me. I grew up going to this festival—it’s been a part of my childhood for as long as I can remember. Stepping up on that demo stage almost 30 years after taking my first bite of their famous peppersteak sandwich...that hit different. What made it even better? I got to cook alongside my sister, Natalie—aka Lil Spice. She took the lead, handled the mic like a pro, and I played the role of kitchen sidekick and flavor DJ.

Our demo was all about showing Dudes how to bring big, chef-level flavor into their everyday kitchen—without spending all day in it. We kept it simple but packed in the good stuff. I threw down a garlic-loaded Greek-style smash burger and fried up some falafel fries while Natalie dropped tips on how to cook with store bought products that actually taste good.

She’s all about that farm life—married to a generational Gilroy farmer and turning his produce into family meals that slap. Me? I took my kitchen obsession on the road and built The Food Dude, slinging dipper burgers, fries, tiramisu, and good vibes at events all over Northern Nevada.

We cook most of the meals at family gatherings, so this demo wasn’t much different—just a bigger crowd and a few more garlic jokes.

I’ve cooked a lot of burgers in my life, but this one? Special.

Cooking with Natalie on that stage was one of those moments I won’t forget. We were laughing, chopping, flipping, and frying—just doing our thing like we always do, but this time with cameras and garlic fans watching.

Huge thanks to the team behind the Garlic Festival for bringing us in-special shout-out to my friend since kindergarten, Lauren! Being part of the festival’s comeback meant a lot, and sharing that moment with my sister made it even better.

🎥 [Watch the demo here] 

Want Some of That Flavor at Your Next Event?

We cater weddings, parties, and private gigs.👉 [Click here to get in touch] and let’s make it delicious.