Bakery That Beat Bobby Flay Now Open in South Tampa
Chef and the Baker has officially opened at 3413 South Manhattan Avenue in South Tampa. This new bakery is the creation of culinary duo Chef Rosana Rivera and Chef Ricardo Castro.
“We’re thrilled to share our love for artisanal food with Tampa Bay, almost as much as our love for each other,” the owners said ahead of their grand opening. “And we are so excited to share that with you SO SOON at 3413 South Manhattan Avenue!”
Chef Rosana Rivera gained national recognition by defeating Bobby Flay on the Food Network with her signature empanadas, while Chef Ricardo Castro was also featured on the Disney+ series Foodtastic. Together, they’ve created Chef and the Baker to bring their French-inspired pastries to the Tampa community.
Rivera appeared on Beat Bobby Flay in 2019, where she competed against Castro, with the winner facing off against celebrity chef Bobby Flay. “We really just wanted to represent Tampa and Puerto Rico on TV,” Rivera shared with the Tampa Bay Times.
When it came to competing against each other on Beat Bobby Flay, both chefs acknowledged their natural competitiveness in the kitchen. Rivera describes herself as a “Type A personality” who always wants the final word on culinary matters, while Castro has a history of leading teams and winning medals in national American Culinary Federation championships. However, in their everyday lives, Rivera emphasized to the outlet, “We’re not trying to outdo each other.” She added, “He loves my food and I love his food.”
Castro appeared on Foodtastic in 2021, a competition show that challenges contestants to create elaborate food sculptures.
Previously, the couple opened Xilo at the Tampa Heights food hall in 2018, focusing on Mexican-style street food, but that restaurant has since closed. They are also leasing a space in Clearwater to expand their catering business and food brand, with plans to use it as a “ghost kitchen” for delivery apps.
The menu at Chef and the Baker features a range of baked goods, including croissants, croix donuts, muffins, morning buns, Mallorcas, and cookies. For a savory option, their empanadas and fresh sandwiches are already generating some buzz.
When the news of its official opening hit social media people were quick to join in on the celebration in the comments. “So excited to get up there and visit you guys!!!” one commenter wrote. Another, who made a long drive, said, “Absolutely worth the near-40 minute drive. The pastries and empanadas are wonderful. I’ll definitely be coming back!” Someone else added, “Everything here is exquisite! Love that they’re back in South Tampa!!!”
