On The Pass

Gabriel Ornelas
  • 4.9 (146)
  • Food
  • Updated Biweekly

On The Pass serves up inspiring conversations with dynamic figures in the food + beverage, hospitality and travel space. Hosted by Gabriel Ornelas.

  1. May 20

    Jorge Vallejo: Inside Mexico's Most Celebrated Restaurant

    JORGE VALLEJO is one of the most important chefs in the world right now. As the chef and co-owner of Quintonil alongside his wife Alejandra Flores, Jorge has helped redefine modern Mexican gastronomy on the global stage. Quintonil currently holds 2 Michelin Stars and was ranked No. 3 on the 2025 World's 50 Best Restaurants list, making it one of the most celebrated restaurants on earth. But this conversation goes far beyond rankings. In this episode of On The Pass, Gabriel Ornelas sits down with Jorge Vallejo for a deeply personal conversation about Mexico, identity, leadership, restaurant culture, hospitality and the responsibility of representing a country through food. Together, they explore: • Why "Mexico is not one thing" • How food acts as a social and emotional connector in Mexican culture • The pressure and privilege of representing Mexico on the world stage • Building a healthy kitchen culture at the highest level of fine dining • Why Quintonil is "the team," not just Jorge and Alejandra • What success actually means beyond Michelin stars and global rankings • How hospitality can transform strangers into lifelong friends Jorge also reflects on the evolution of Mexican cuisine, the importance of sustainability and local producers, and why creating meaningful experiences matters more than awards. This is a conversation about more than food. It's about building something that makes people feel seen, welcomed and connected. If you care about creativity, culture, leadership, hospitality, or the future of gastronomy, this is an episode you do not want to miss. SUBSCRIBE to On The Pass for more conversations with the world's leading chefs, restaurateurs, hoteliers, winemakers, and cultural visionaries. WATCH on YouTube LISTEN on Apple Podcasts & Spotify An On The Pass Studios Production   Learn more about Quintonil: https://bit.ly/4v4Wuqd     Follow Quintonil + Jorge on Instagram: https://bit.ly/42HgCT9 https://bit.ly/49e5eBP     Follow On The Pass on Instagram: http://bit.ly/3Kvgm1n     Subscribe to On The Pass on YouTube: https://bit.ly/4hajZq8     Follow our Host, Gabriel Ornelas: http://bit.ly/3YS964b     Learn more about On The Pass: https://bit.ly/44rEOsR     Lets work together! Get in contact: https://www.onthepass.com

    1 hr

  2. May 6

    Brian Limoges: Redefining Kitchen Culture

    What does it take to build a two Michelin star restaurant in just six months?   In this episode, Gabriel Ornelas sits down with Chef Brian Limoges, Executive Chef of Enclos in Sonoma County—one of the most exciting new restaurants in American fine dining.   But this conversation goes beyond the stars. Brian reflects on his journey through some of the world's most demanding kitchens and the personal shift that redefined how he leads today—moving from intensity and pressure to patience, intention, and mentorship.   They discuss the deeper story behind Enclos, the importance of storytelling in cuisine, and how a restaurant can truly reflect the land it comes from. From Sonoma's terroir to team culture, this episode explores what it means to build something meaningful, not just successful.   A conversation about growth, perspective, and the evolution of leadership in hospitality. An On The Pass Studios Production 🔔 Subscribe for more conversations with the icons and innovators shaping hospitality and culture worldwide.   Learn more about Enclos: https://bit.ly/4tUjg3S     Follow Enclos on Instagram: https://bit.ly/4w7r6st     Follow On The Pass on Instagram: http://bit.ly/3Kvgm1n     Subscribe to On The Pass on YouTube: https://bit.ly/4hajZq8     Follow our Host, Gabriel Ornelas: http://bit.ly/3YS964b     Learn more about On The Pass: https://bit.ly/44rEOsR     Lets work together! Get in contact: https://www.onthepass.com

    54 min

  3. Apr 7

    Marcus Jernmark: Redefining Fine Dining in LA

    In this episode of On The Pass, Gabriel Ornelas sits down with Swedish-born chef Marcus Jernmark — one of the most accomplished chefs of his generation, known for leading some of the world's most celebrated kitchens, including Restaurant Frantzén and Zén, both awarded three Michelin stars. After a global career spanning Aquavit and Per Se, Marcus has quietly spent the last four years in Los Angeles — observing, learning, and rethinking what fine dining can be. Now, with the opening of Lielle, Marcus is stepping into a new chapter. This is not another fine dining restaurant. This is a redefinition... Blending the warmth and accessibility of a bistro with the precision and intention of Michelin-level cooking, Lielle represents a shift — away from excess, away from "smoke and mirrors," and toward something more human, more grounded, and more nourishing. In this conversation, Marcus reflects on: What Los Angeles has taught him about food, culture, and community Why he chose patience over speed in building his first independent project The responsibility of leading teams and building sustainable kitchens The realities of burnout, mentorship, and longevity in the hospitality industry And how becoming a father has reshaped his perspective on success and legacy This episode is not just about food...It's about evolution. It's about redefining excellence — without losing yourself in the process. And it's about why Los Angeles may be one of the most important dining cities in the world right now. If you care about restaurants, leadership, creativity, or the future of hospitality — this is a conversation worth sitting with. An On The Pass Studios Production 🔔 Subscribe for more conversations with the icons and innovators shaping hospitality and culture worldwide.   Learn more about Marcus Jernmark + Lielle: https://bit.ly/4vcS9ll     Follow Marcus on Instagram: https://bit.ly/4sWe1QI     Follow On The Pass on Instagram: http://bit.ly/3Kvgm1n     Subscribe to On The Pass on YouTube: https://bit.ly/4hajZq8     Follow our Host, Gabriel Ornelas: http://bit.ly/3YS964b     Learn more about On The Pass: https://bit.ly/44rEOsR     Lets work together! Get in contact: https://www.onthepass.com

    1h 13m

  4. Mar 11

    Andrew + Michelle Muñoz: Inside Moo's Craft Barbecue

    In this episode of On The Pass, Gabriel Ornelas sits down with Andrew and Michelle Muñoz, the husband-and-wife team behind Moo's Craft Barbecue — one of the most celebrated barbecue restaurants in Los Angeles.   What started as a humble backyard project between friends has grown into a nationally recognized destination for Texas-style barbecue in LA, earning critical acclaim, a Michelin Bib Gourmand, and a James Beard Award nomination.   But this conversation goes far beyond brisket and smoke.   Andrew and Michelle share the story of building Moo's from the ground up — navigating the realities of running a restaurant, the responsibility of leading a team, and the deeper meaning behind hospitality and community. Together, they reflect on the discipline of craft barbecue, the evolution of the Los Angeles food scene, and the balance required to sustain both a business and a life.   This episode is a conversation about perseverance, partnership, and the belief that great food can bring people together in powerful ways.   For anyone interested in barbecue, restaurants, entrepreneurship, or the spirit of hospitality, this is a conversation about what it really takes to build something meaningful.   Listen in as we explore the journey behind one of LA's most beloved barbecue spots. An On The Pass Studios Production. 🔔 Subscribe for more conversations with the icons and innovators shaping hospitality and culture worldwide.   Learn more about Moos Craft BBQ: https://bit.ly/4uptHgl     Follow Moos on Instagram: https://bit.ly/4beQh2p     Follow On The Pass on Instagram: http://bit.ly/3Kvgm1n     Subscribe to On The Pass on YouTube: https://bit.ly/4hajZq8     Follow our Host, Gabriel Ornelas: http://bit.ly/3YS964b     Learn more about On The Pass: https://bit.ly/44rEOsR     Lets work together! Get in contact: https://www.onthepass.com

    1h 13m

  5. Feb 11

    Nancy Silverton: Building Restaurants That Last

    Nancy Silverton on Purpose, Loss, Leadership & Building Restaurants That Last   This weeks On The Pass episode, Gabriel Ornelas sits down with culinary icon Nancy Silverton — chef, restaurateur, mentor, and co-founder of the Mozza Restaurant Group.    From helping define California cuisine to building an international restaurant empire that includes Osteria Mozza, Pizzeria Mozza, and Chi Spacca, Nancy has shaped the way America eats. But this conversation goes far beyond food.   Nancy opens up about: - Imposter syndrome — and why it may be her secret fuel - The difference between being a chef and being a leader - Why "angry cooks make angry food" - How to choose business partners wisely - Why she feels like she's just getting started - What longevity really requires in restaurants and in life   This episode isn't just for chefs. It's for founders, creatives, and anyone building something meaningful — especially when the road hasn't been straight.   Nancy reminds us that great food is one thing. But building something that lasts requires courage, humility, and purpose.    If you've ever wondered how to keep going — this conversation is for you. 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or watch the full episode here on YouTube.   🔔 Subscribe for more conversations with the icons and innovators shaping hospitality and culture worldwide.   Learn more about Nancy Silverton: https://bit.ly/4akSSc9     Follow Nancy Silverton on Instagram: https://bit.ly/3M23Ny4     Follow On The Pass on Instagram: http://bit.ly/3Kvgm1n     Subscribe to On The Pass on YouTube: https://bit.ly/4hajZq8     Follow our Host, Gabriel Ornelas: http://bit.ly/3YS964b     Learn more about On The Pass: https://bit.ly/44rEOsR     Lets work together! Get in contact: https://www.onthepass.com

    57 min

  6. Jan 21

    Matt Crafton: Building for the Next 50 Years

    This conversation is about much more than wine. On this episode of On The Pass, we sit down with Matt Crafton, winemaker at the legendary Chateau Montelena, as the winery approaches a historic milestone—50 years since the Judgment of Paris reshaped the global perception of American wine. Rather than rehashing history, this conversation looks forward. Matt shares his unconventional path into winemaking, from leaving finance behind, starting at the bottom of the cellar, and embracing craft over comfort, to now stewarding one of the most iconic names in Napa Valley alongside CEO Bo Barrett. Together, we explore: What it means to build something that outlives you Leading with trust, clarity, and creative freedom Replanting vineyards with a century-long mindset Embracing innovation and technology without losing soul Why wine is ultimately about people, connection, and shared moments You don't need to be a wine expert to take something meaningful from this episode. This is a conversation about legacy, leadership, patience, and community—told through the lens of a place that has helped shape American culture. If you care about building things with intention, thinking long-term, and creating work that endures, this episode is for you. 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts & Spotify 📺 Watch the full conversation on YouTube 🔔 Subscribe for more conversations at the intersection of food, culture, and humanity   Learn more about Chateau Montelena Winery: https://bit.ly/4jVs31m     Follow Chateau Montelena on Instagram: https://bit.ly/45hP3RZ     Follow On The Pass on Instagram: http://bit.ly/3Kvgm1n     Subscribe to On The Pass on YouTube: https://bit.ly/4hajZq8     Follow our Host, Gabriel Ornelas: http://bit.ly/3YS964b     Learn more about On The Pass: https://bit.ly/44rEOsR     Lets work together! Get in contact: https://www.onthepass.com

    1h 21m

  7. Jan 7

    José Luis Hinostroza: Calm, Fire and Belonging

    In this episode of On The Pass, with José Luis Hinostroza, the chef behind ARCA, a jungle-rooted restaurant shaped by fire, place, and pre-colonial Mesoamerican tradition. José Luis' journey spans some of the world's most influential kitchens — Alinea, El Celler de Can Roca, and Noma — where he later joined the R&D team for Noma Mexico. But rather than chasing prestige, he chose presence, calm, and connection, ultimately building a life and community in Tulum. Recorded just after a powerful collaboration dinner celebrating 10 years of ARCA, with chefs flying in from across Mexico, this conversation goes far beyond the plate. We explore: Finding calm in Tulum after years of anxiety Reconnecting with Mexican identity through indigenous ingredients Letting go of ego and leading with humility Mentorship, team-building, and protecting creative vision Why ARCA rejects the "fine dining" label Community, responsibility, and the future of Mexican cuisine This episode is about more than food. It's about leadership, legacy, and choosing a life aligned with your values. 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts and Spotify 📺 Watch the full conversation on YouTube 📲 Follow @itsonthepass and join the conversation   Learn more about José Luis Hinostroza + ARCA:  https://bit.ly/49uYyi5     Follow José Luis Hinostroza on Instagram: https://bit.ly/4szpuGa     Follow On The Pass on Instagram: http://bit.ly/3Kvgm1n     Subscribe to On The Pass on YouTube: https://bit.ly/4hajZq8     Follow our Host, Gabriel Ornelas: http://bit.ly/3YS964b     Learn more about On The Pass: https://bit.ly/44rEOsR     Lets work together! Get in contact: https://www.onthepass.com

    1h 12m

  8. 12/10/2025

    Hot Spot: Travis Swikard of Callie + Fleurette

    Chef Travis Swikard has become one of the most influential voices shaping the future of West Coast dining. After years cooking at the highest levels in New York, Travis returned home to San Diego to create Callie, a restaurant that has redefined Southern California cuisine and captured national attention. Now, he's preparing to open Fleurette, his most intimate and personal restaurant yet — a project rooted in craft, memory, and a deep sense of place.   In this conversation, Travis opens up about the moments that shaped him: the early lessons that forged his discipline, the risk of walking away from a dream job, the grief and setbacks that humbled him, and the clarity that came from rebuilding with purpose. We explore how he leads, how he cultivates culture inside the kitchen, how he thinks about flavor and storytelling, and why he believes San Diego is entering its most exciting culinary chapter yet.   In this episode, we discuss: • The rise of Callie and Travis' return to San Diego • Why Fleurette represents a new creative frontier • Leadership, culture-building, and empowering young cooks • Turning loss into fuel and rebuilding with intention • What defines San Diego's food identity — and where it's going • The responsibility chefs carry in shaping community   Whether you're a chef, entrepreneur, hospitality leader, or someone who simply loves food and meaningful storytelling, this episode offers a rare look into the heart and mind of a chef leading with vision.   📍 Listen to more episodes of On The Pass on Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music, and YouTube. 📺 Watch this full conversation on YouTube — including bonus moments and behind-the-scenes context. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly conversations with the chefs, thinkers, entrepreneurs, and culture-builders shaping hospitality today. An On The Pass Studios Production   Learn more about Travis Swikard + Callie San Diego:  https://bit.ly/48JdQ1Y     Follow Travis Swikard on Instagram: https://bit.ly/44QDyR7     Follow On The Pass on Instagram: http://bit.ly/3Kvgm1n     Subscribe to On The Pass on YouTube and Watch "A New Course": https://bit.ly/4hajZq8     Follow our Host, Gabriel Ornelas: http://bit.ly/3YS964b     Learn more about On The Pass: https://bit.ly/44rEOsR     Lets work together! Get in contact: https://www.onthepass.com

    1h 21m
See All (147)

4.9
out of 5
146 Ratings

About

On The Pass serves up inspiring conversations with dynamic figures in the food + beverage, hospitality and travel space. Hosted by Gabriel Ornelas.

Information

  • Creator
    Gabriel Ornelas
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    147
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © On The Pass 2025
  • Show Website
    On The Pass

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