BREAKING BREAD WITH.... Camilla Marcus
Welcome to BREAKING BREAD WITH, a series where we gather with creatives, tastemakers, and storytellers to explore the moments that bring us together. More than just a meal, breaking bread is a sacred act of community, fostering connections that shape our lives. Through inspiring conversations - and indulgent meals - we celebrate the art of connection through food, gathering, and shared experiences.
Camilla Marcus
Chef, Designer, Activist, Entrepreneur, Mother of 4, and now published Author
A trailblazer in her own right, Camilla's life and career is deeply rooted in social impact and environmental stewardship. With a JD/MBA from New York University and professional training from the French Culinary Institute, she brings a unique perspective to addressing the complex challenges of sustainability. A California native, Camilla has a deep respect for nature and this passion has fueled her to become a leading voice for regenerative food systems. She also founded west~bourne, a consumer packaged goods company that pioneers carbon-neutral, biodiversity-driven supply chains. As we write up this piece, it just so happens to be the release date of her first published book, My Regenerative Kitchen, a cookbook highlighting plant based recipes and sustainable practices to nourish both body and planet. Beyond her many career accomplishments, Camilla is a wonder woman mother of 4, co-founded ROAR, helped form the Independent Restaurant Coalition, and has remained a steadfast advocate for working mothers and women's rights, making her a true force for good. Without further ado, we chat with Camilla about traditions, heritage, and her no-fail recipe for a last-minute gathering...
Traditions - both old and new - are at the heart of Hamkke. What traditions from your upbringing do you hope to pass on to your own children?
Travel was always a core part of my childhood, even exploring all parts of my hometown of LA. Trying novel things, experiencing a fresh setting, and meeting new people is something I hope to share with and impart on my children. I was raised with an appreciation for expanding your perspective and your world, with a humility that there's always something more to learn and grow from.
What rituals or practices have you created on your own that blend your heritage with your personal evolution?
Mindfulness is a core piece of my heritage and how I was raised. Immersing ourselves in nature is how I integrate that need for pause and presence into our daily rituals and lives. We spend a great deal of time at farms, at the beach, hiking, and in our home garden. We take note of the small, quiet and often overlooked - soaking up the wonder of everything we have around us in nature.
Who are three people - living or not - that you'd most like to "break bread" with?
Ruth Bader Ginsberg, Hilma af Klint, and Albert Einstein
What is your go-to, no-fail meal to serve when hosting a last-minute gathering?
I love a large format, interactive dessert to get messy and have fun with. My Chocolate Cashew Pudding a la Nammos is the ultimate (recipe below).
Rapid Fire
- Three essential items for a simple, beautiful tablescape? Thoughtful ceramics, foraged florals, a surprise for each guest at their place setting.
- Morning cup of jo or a nightcap? Both, why choose.
- Sweet or savory? I love the intersection of the two. That's core to my culinary perspective.
- One ingredient you can't live without? west~bourne avocado oil, of course!
- Most cherished heirloom in your home? A bracelet from my maternal grandmother Ruth, who I'm named after. It's the only thing we have from her and while I never had the privilege of meeting her, I feel very bonded to her spirit. Wearing her bracelet always brings her closer to me, often my lucky charm when I'm challenging myself.
To learn more, follow Camilla at @camilla.marcus and check out her latest book, My Regenerative Kitchen.
