Being in the business of pies means the holiday season is especially busy for husbands and business partners Gan Suebsarakham and Steven Torres. “We are so thankful that San Diegans trust us with their holiday pies, which are a tradition in and of themselves,” says Torres, who met his other half through Grossmont College’s culinary arts program. “We decided to start a restaurant soon after meeting, and that worked out nicely since we also fell in love,” Suebsarakham adds.
That restaurant, Pop Pie Co. in University Heights, has since opened a second location in Costa Mesa and spun off an ice cream shop, Stella Jean’s, to neighbor each. When they’re not working, you can most likely find them in their Bankers Hill home entertaining—Suebsarakham’s the chef, while Torres works the room and entertains guests. These are a few of their favorite things that help them entertain.
Gift Guide Entertainers / Suebsarakham and Torres Matcha Set
Matcha Set
“We just love this Portland-based company Mizuba’s take on green tea. This is also the matcha we use at Pop Pie Co.” $89
Gift Guide Entertainers / Suebsarakham and Torres Claudia’s Cocina
Claudia’s Cocina: A Taste of Mexico by Claudia Sandoval
“Our friend Claudia is an extremely talented chef and her cookbook is a must for all San Diego home cooks.” $40, chefclaudiasandoval.com
Gift Guide Entertainers / Suebsarakham and Torres Coffee Beans
Coffee Beans
“Onyx roasts some of the best coffee in the country, and we have become good friends with their team. The Geometry blend is our favorite to brew at home.” $10-96
Gift Guide Entertainers / Suebsarakham and Torres Apron
Apron
“Our ice cream magicians wear this brand, Hedley & Bennett, at Stella Jean’s. We’re really big fans of everything they do.” $95
Gift Guide Entertainers / Suebsarakham and Torres Sous Vide
Sous Vide
“Try using the Joule Sous Vide for meal prep, and it will change your life. Juicy chicken breast, perfectly cooked salmon, the list goes on.” $250, breville.com
Gift Guide Entertainers / Suebsarakham and Torres Studio Roller
Studio Roller
“We use George & Willy’s merch throughout both shops. The studio roller would fit in well in a home kitchen or playroom.” $170
Gift Guide Entertainers / Suebsarakham and Torres Air Fryer
Air Fryer
“We love the Phillips Premium Digital Airfryer because of how easy it is: put ingredients in, wait, remove, finished.” $350, williams-sonoma.com
Gift Guide Entertainers / Suebsarakham and Torres Thumb Cup
Thumb Cup
“This Ocean Beach brand makes our Pop Pie Co. cups. The Thumb Cups especially are unique. Shop local!” $28, maekceramics.com
Gift Guide Entertainers / Suebsarakham and Torres
Haley Hill
