Executive Chef Mike Fischetti

Chef Mike, a graduate of the Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale in 2006, embarked on a remarkable culinary journey that reads like a symphony of achievements. Beginning at Michelles in Bar Harbor, Maine, he played a pivotal role in securing the AAA 5-Star Diamond Award. As the Executive Chef at Citas Italian Chop House, he left an indelible mark, earning the prestigious 'Taste of the Grove' award at the Coconut Grove Food and Wine Festival.

However, his culinary voice truly resonated at Ortanique in Coral Gables alongside Cindy Hutson, where, as Chef de Cuisine, he led a culinary movement blending global flavors with the essence of island cuisine. Three-time consecutive winner of the Swine and Wine competition at the South Beach Food and Wine Festival, Chef Mike showcased his talents at the iconic James Beard House.

Relocating to the Bay Area, Chef Mike took the reins at Va de Vi in Walnut Creek, California, recognized as a Featured Chef by Pacific Gourmet in 2020. The pinnacle of his career came in 2022 when he was crowned the Certified Angus Beef Chef of the Year, a testament to his dedication to quality and innovation.

Now, as the Executive Chef at The Pocket in Carmel-by-the-Sea, Chef Mike's culinary compass continues to point towards excellence. His journey, an anthology of passion for ingredients and culinary mastery, has undeniably etched his name into the channels of gastronomy.

Pastry Chef Asha Johnston

Born and raised in Carmel, California, Asha's passion for baking began at a young age in her grandmother's kitchen.

This led her to pursue a formal education at the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park where she acquired a Bachelors in business and her associates in baking and pastry. Further honing her skills, she earned a cake decorating certificate from Cordon Bleu in London.

Today, Asha is proud to serve as the Pastry Chef at The Pocket in Carmel, where she continues to create and innovate in the world of desserts.

Her goal in this new venture is to make cozy quality desserts using only the best ingredients in order to bring smiles to the people and travelers of Carmel.