DEAR PRODUCER,
I'm inviting you to join Microclimate Foods: An Ojai Tasting — an intimate seasonal dinner I'm hosting at Earthtrine Farms on Saturday, November 21, 2026. This is a curated gathering of 50 guests, Chef William, and a small circle of Ojai Valley producers, makers, and artisans whose work defines the rhythm of our harvest season.
The dinner celebrates ultra-local micro foods: ingredients sourced from small-batch farmers, local gardens, and backyard harvests throughout Ojai Valley — the extraordinary, one-of-a-kind flavors that our guests discover at farm stands, neighborhood trees, and in the valley's unique microclimates.
This is not a standard farm dinner where producers stand nearby while guests eat. Each of the 10 courses features a single producer's ingredient, and when that tasting arrives, you speak directly to the guests — what you grow, how you make it, why it matters. A living conversation between chef, makers, and the people who care most about where their food comes from.
A 2–3 minute story when your course arrives — your voice, your craft, your farm, directly to 50 guests who care.
One featured course in the 10-tasting progression, with your ingredient as the centerpiece and inspiration.
You are paid for the products you provide. No donation expected — your craft is valued, and we agree on terms before the event.
Your name, story, and contact appear in Chef William's “Local Producers to Know” section — permanently, for guests to find you after the dinner.
I've chosen each collaborator with care. The status next to your name reflects where we are — I look forward to your confirmation.
| # | Italian Name | Collaborator(s) |
|---|---|---|
| I | Aperitivo Ventura | Ventura Spirits |
| II | Pane e Crostini | Bluebell Bakehouse |
| III | Crudo di Pesce | Bailey Raith + Microgreen Grower (TBD) |
| IV | Risotto ai Funghi | Mushroom Grower (TBD) + Ojai Vineyard (TBD) |
| V | Insalata di Stagione | Evan Rilling + BD Earthtrine Farms |
| VI | Formaggio Locale | Artisan Cheesemaker (TBD) |
| VII | Seconda di Carne | Casitas Springs Meats |
| VIII | Verdure di Stagione | Rio Gozo Farms |
| IX | Dolce di Stagione | Rainbow Ranch |
| X | Frutta di Stagione | Local Fruit Grower (TBD) |
| — | Table Florals | Bria Roberts |
| — | Live Music | Local Ojai musician — TBD |
Bria Roberts creates the wildflower and local flower arrangements that dress the long communal table throughout the evening. Her work transforms the setting into something alive — and the edible wildflowers she selects also appear on the plate in Course V, linking the visual and culinary experience. Bria is featured in the guide and recognized at the dinner as a full collaborator.
Please reply by October 1, 2026. I look forward to welcoming you to the table.
Chef William Robertson
Private Chef & Culinary Author — Ojai, California
Please reply by October 1, 2026. Chef William will follow up to confirm details and agree on fair compensation.