Our Team
Executive Chef + Dad + Co-Founder
David grew up in California’s Central Valley, where fresh ingredients and family meals first sparked his love for cooking. After graduating from the California Culinary Academy in San Francisco, he built his career in some of the country’s most respected kitchens, including Nobu in New York, Ray’s Boathouse in Seattle, and the Wattis Room at Davies Symphony Hall in San Francisco. Along the way, he’s had the privilege of cooking for the Dalai Lama, several U.S. presidents, Anthony Bourdain, and Snoop Dogg, to name a few.
While his background is rooted in fine dining, David’s passion has always been creating food that feels approachable and full of flavor, without the fuss. At Grub Smokehouse, he brings together everything he’s learned to craft dishes that are made from scratch, inspired by fresh ingredients, and designed to bring people together around the table.
Chief Vibe Officer + Mom + Co-Founder
Kristina has always had a passion for bringing people together. Growing up in the Soviet Union as part of a traveling circus, she was surrounded by people from all walks of life, an experience that shaped her love for community, culture, and celebration. That same spirit guides her today in the kitchen and beyond.
After years of leading creative teams and building businesses, Kristina found her true joy in combining those skills with her love of food. Traveling through Europe with David and their two daughters deepened her appreciation for how meals connect people and create lasting memories.
At Grub Smokehouse, Kristina brings warmth, energy, and heart to everything she does. For her it’s not just about food but about creating a space where everyone feels welcome and where life’s little moments are celebrated over a good meal.