Rooted in Fire: a Coronado Public Library Thanksgiving Week Adventure featuring Pyet DeSpain, Native American/Mexican Chef and Winner of Gordon Ramsay’s Next Level Chef in conversation with award-winning chef and bestselling author Claudia Sandoval
About the Live, In-Person, Adventure
“Every dish carries a story — of the land, the people, and the love that sustains them.” – Pyet DeSpain
As the season of harvest and gathering arrives, join us for an inspiring evening with Pyet DeSpain, winner of Gordon Ramsay’s Next Level Chef and author of the stunning debut cookbook, Rooted in Fire: a Celebration of Native American and Mexican Cooking, in conversation with award-winning chef and bestselling author Claudia Sandoval.
Pyet will share how her Native American and Mexican heritage infuses every recipe with tradition, resilience, and deep respect for the earth. Through stories, flavors, and ancestral wisdom, she invites us to celebrate the ways food can connect us, honor our roots, and nourish both body and spirit.
“Pyet’s talent is evident in every recipe in this book.The way she weaves her heritage into her dishes is extraordinary… Trust me, you’re in for an absolute treat.” – Gordon Ramsay
“[Pyet’s] voice is heartfelt,her vision and dedication are clear, and her talent within the Indigenous food movement is undeniable.This book marks an important chapter in her growing legacy.” – Sean Sherman, founder of the Sioux Chef/Natifs.Org and author of the Sioux Chef’s Indigenous Kitchen and Turtle Island
Registration
Registration for this event is FREE and open to the public. But why not treat yourself to the VIP treatment. Pre-order a copy of Rooted in Fire below to receive not only a $5 book discount (online special only) but also to guarantee event admission and priority seating.
Books will be delivered to you at the event for signing and are also available at the event for purchase. Only books pre-ordered below or purchased at the event will be eligible for signing.
About the Author and Book
Pyet is short for her inherited Native American name, Pyetwetmokwe. As a proud member of the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation, and with deep roots in her Mexican heritage, Pyet’s work reflects the balance of both cultures. Her approach to food is deeply personal — a blend of identity, history, and the drive to keep ancestral traditions alive through everyday cooking.
As the first winner of Gordon Ramsay’s Next Level Chef winner, Pyet DeSpain draws on her roots to blend the traditions of Native American and Mexican foodways with modern culinary creativity, offering private chef services, catering, and educational experiences.
Her mission is to honor ancestral flavors, support sustainable food practices, and create meaningful connections through food, by ensuring that every dish she creates tells a story, one of culture, resilience, and the deep ties between food and community.
Rooted in Fire: a Celebration of Native American and Mexican Cooking is Pyet DeSpain’s debut cookbook, a heartfelt tribute to her Native American and Mexican heritage. With over 60 inspired recipes, this book invites you into the vibrant, seasonal, and healing world of Indigenous Fusion cuisine. From bison and wild berries to mezcal and chocolate, these dishes aren’t just meals—they’re stories, passed down and reimagined for the modern table.
About the Moderator
Chef Claudia Sandoval is an award-winning chef, bestselling author, TV host, and executive producer internationally recognized for her modern approach to Mexican cuisine and her deep commitment to community. She launched her career after winning Season 6 of MasterChef U.S., becoming the first Latina to hold the title, and has since built a robust television résumé with appearances on Chopped, Worst Cooks in America, Tournament of Champions, Grudge Match, Easter Basket Challenge, and Top Chef VIP. She has also judged MasterChef Latino (Telemundo) and MasterChef Latinos (Estrella TV).
Founder of Claudia’s Cocina and creator of the acclaimed pop-up bakery Cochi Dorado, she has partnered with leading global brands and helped raise more than $1 million for nonprofits. Based between San Diego and Tijuana, Claudia continues to champion culture, storytelling, and community through every dish and project she touches.
About the Coronado Public Library
The mission of the Coronado Public Library is to meet the informational, recreational, and cultural needs of the community and to actively promote reading, life-long learning, and the pursuit of knowledge.
