We had the good fortune of connecting with Brennan Villarreal and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Brennan, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
I’m from Long Beach California. I grew up with my parents separated and I mostly stayed with my mom. Which is my Filipino side of the family. I’d say where my interest in Filipino food came. I wanted to learn more about my culture.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’ve been cooking for about 12 years. A lot of it has been up and down, but mostly up. Cooking professionally is definitely not easy. It’s the most high pressure low paying job you can have. In a way for those that do it love it. The kitchen culture can be very toxic. Until k started working at lasita in Chinatown where everyone operated in togetherness instead of feeling alienated. In doing so I wanted to talk to other hospitality workers. Everyone is different and comes from different backgrounds. Then I started my podcast called Linecheck. Linecheck is essentially when a chef comes to your station on the line to check all your mise en place.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
First we’d go to Sala coffee and wine located in bixby knolls. I believe they have the best coffee in Long Beach. Next we’d have to go to the beach because why would you not if you’re coming to so cal. If you’re into vintage shopping we can go to retro row in Long Beach and check out small business owner Okok vintage. Next door grab a hand pressed juice by Salud. For dinner it’s time to go to Chaing Rai for Thai food. Then off to Buvons a natural wine bar with small snacks. To finish off the night cap let’s have a cocktail at Baby Gees one of the best bars in the country.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Sasha Schoen my partner and business partner in our collaborative events we host.

Instagram: https://instagram.com/linecheck?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@linecheck?si=0hwyIPgw2AxkugWC

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutSocal is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.