Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/732294
CONTINUED ON PAGE 24 Magic B read and Roses may be one of the best restau- rants in Venice, yet you've probably never heard of it. Its Executive Chef, Derek Bran- don Walker, AKA, "Chef D," won the popular Food Network's competition on the TV show, Chopped, and on any giv- en day, 150 people may be enjoying his steak adobe, salmon cakes, chilaquiles or veggie or vegan options. What makes this all so extraordinary? e cuisine is free, the wait staff may sit with their guests, and the clientele are homeless. e St. Joseph Center's Bread and Roses Cafe on Rose Ave. in Venice is one of many services that focus on the community's survival needs—hunger, health and housing. eir Food Forward program includes food pantry donations for local families from local markets. St. Joseph also has a culinary training program that Derek heads up as Manager, Chef and In- structor, where he found his labor of love. He has taught valuable skillsets to hundreds of students coming out of rehab or the pris- on system, veterans and those dealing with traumatic injuries and PTSD. He was asked to speak with incarcerat- ed youth by the Los Angeles Chamber of Commerce and City Councilman Mike Bonin 11th District. He has also worked with Mayor Eric Garcetti by lending his insight into the homeless crisis facing the city. october/november 2016 23