Itze Behar & John Welsh
Itze Behar, executive chef and owner, Black Radish; John Welsh, proprietor, Black Radish
Home base: Coronado
How did your love story begin? We’ve been working together at the Coronado Tavern for over 10 years. About six years ago, our relationship evolved, and our mutual passion for food and design inspired us to open a restaurant together. A restaurant that would bring our love for New York’s intimate fine dining yet casual restaurant scene to San Diego. Our love for each other and Black Radish has grown together.
Favorite thing about one another: Itze: John is kind and generous, and I love his creative nature. It impresses me how he can create beautiful and comfortable spaces and his attention to the little details. He has always supported me as a chef and encouraged my growth.
John: Initially, I was so impressed with how talented she is in the kitchen. How she can visualize a new dish and create it out of thin air. I’ve always loved cooking but lack the ability to create something new. Eventually, I learned what a great mom she was and how our personal passions aligned. She’s pretty cute too!
Favorite date night: Since we are often busy with the restaurants and other businesses, we enjoy making a simple, delicious meal at home and watching a stand-up comic on TV while Itze has a glass of wine and John finishes a pint of Ben & Jerry’s.
Favorite tradition you have as a couple: Visiting New York City after Christmas and eating at amazing restaurants and seeing comedians at Gotham Comedy Club.
What does your happily ever after look like? Spending more time in New York and Northern California. We have a dream of traveling from the city to the country and back to the coast. Itze would like to write a cookbook while John would like to be the taste tester.