Today we’d like to introduce you to Eric and Rachel Ponce.
Hi Eric and Rachel , please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Eric and I met in Chicago, where he ran the beer barrel aged program at Goose Island Brewing Co., the largest in the country, and I owned and taught at my dance fitness studio. Eric bravely took one of my classes, and the rest is history. I was passionate about beer and the craft, so I loved geeking out over his creations. Many of his beers were aged in wine barrels, and we were always fascinated by the history of the wine and the origin of each barrel. Our curiosity led us to research, study, and take WSET classes to deepen our wine knowledge, not realizing it would shape our future. Cooking has always come naturally to me, and the wine classes sparked a passion for creative pairings. While still in Chicago, I began casually teaching pairing classes for fun, and after a few sessions, friends encouraged me, saying I was on to something. These classes simplified pairings and offered a fresh approach, so I opened them up to more people, and they were a hit. Fast forward to Eric accepting a job at Firestone Walker Brewing Co. and our move to Paso Robles. Pregnant at the time, I knew I wouldn’t open another studio, so I explored where I fit in the wine industry. After working in tasting rooms and realizing I talked more about food, pairings, and recipes than wine, I knew my place was in the kitchen. In 2019, I launched ‘Pair With’ as a private chef and pairing class business. What began as a goal of just a few events a month quickly grew through word of mouth into multiple events weekly, cooking for some of the best wineries in the area—truly a pinch-me moment. Eric and I had long dreamed of opening our own place, imagining how unique and special it could be. We decided the time was right; he left Firestone Walker to start his own brand, Cellar Fermentation, and we began searching for the perfect spot. Staviary was born and we are located in the Bottleshop at 1102 Railroad St, Paso Robles. Staviary will have fun lunch vibes focusing on Eric’s beers and a menu inspired by global street food. For dinner, chefs menu with beer and wine pairings and a small a la carte menu. We are hoping to open the doors early 2026.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
We’ve definitely faced challenges on the journey to where we are today. Those challenges have made us stronger, teaching us to make tough decisions by trusting our gut and knowing what’s healthy and right for us. I know what I do is different and unique, and at times I let others get into my head, which pulled me away from myself. But through time and mistakes, I’ve learned to cook from my heart, and since then I’ve seen a real difference in the outcome of my dinners. Now, the challenge is permitting and building. We wanted to open yesterday, but patience is key.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Brewmaster Eric Ponce is celebrated for his barrel-aged beers, which will definitely be featured, but Belgian & French style saison beers have special place in his heart. He focuses on the purity of the beer with a strong European influence, having studied in Germany and Belgium, and guests will surely taste that in his work. Our tap system was custom-built in Pilsen, Czech Republic and we pour beer in a classic style rarely seen in U.S. breweries. We’re also the first couple certified as Tap Masters from Lukr, which is the company that built our beer faucets. With years of brewing experience, Eric has honed his skills and developed a knack for creating distinctive flavors. Now, as co-owner and brewer at Staviary, he’s passionate about showcasing international beers and wines that perfectly complement Chef Rachel’s inventive cuisine. His dedication to quality and creativity ensures every sip balances tradition and modern brewing techniques.
Chef Rachel Ponce is a culinary talent with a passion for flavor and a commitment to sustainability. With years of experience, she brings a unique mix of creativity and skill to Staviary. As co-owner of this soon-to-open Paso Robles restaurant, she’s focused on crafting unforgettable dishes using the best local ingredients while embracing global influences. Her dedication to pairing outstanding food with thoughtfully selected beverages stems from her time with Pair With, where she refined her ability to create harmonious dining experiences. Rachel’s fresh approach and love of hospitality promises to make Staviary a must-visit spot for food lovers.
What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
Take the vacation, lol. We work so hard, with endless days and no time off, but we wouldn’t change a thing. We’re putting our heart and soul into this restaurant, but at the end of the day, we have two children, and as much as they’re a part of this, taking time away to give them our full attention is so important. We need that balance, and when we’re rested, our creations get even wilder.
Contact Info:
- Website: PairWithChefRachel.com
- Instagram: pair_with_chef_rachel, cellarfermentation
- Facebook: Rachel Ponce, Eric Ponce
Image Credits
Julian Peck Patrick Ibarra
