Paso Robles chef serves tacos at pop-up event
Loretta McFarland and Charlie Reed.
McFarland has cooked for former president Barack Obama and musician Stevie Wonder
– Longtime Paso Robles resident Loretta McFarland hosted a pop-up kitchen on Saturday, Feb. 15, from noon to 4 p.m. at 729 Spring Street.
McFarland, a Paso Robles High School graduate from the class of 1979, later moved to Atlanta, where she gained experience cooking at Morehouse College. She was later selected to cook for former president Barack Obama and musician Stevie Wonder, accomplishments she described as unforgettable.
In 2016, McFarland returned to California, continuing to refine her culinary skills. She said these experiences strengthened her confidence in the kitchen and motivated her to work toward opening a restaurant.
Her family assisted with Saturday’s event, including her brother Charlie Reed, and his youngest son, Anthony Reed. The menu featured carne asada tacos with Spanish rice and beans. Approximately 50 plates were sold.
McFarland said she looks forward to hosting another pop-up kitchen in early spring.
-Report and photos by Paso Robles Incidents/Action
