Moody Gardens is thrilled to welcome Executive Pastry Chef Kristy Riley, whose passion for crafting delectable and imaginative desserts shines through in every creation.
Born in Malaysia and raised in the vibrant culinary hub of New Orleans, Kristy brings over 18 years of experience in the food industry. She honed her expertise at the Louisiana Culinary Institute, earning a degree in Fine Art Baking & Pastry, alongside a Bachelor’s in Business Management.
Moody Gardens Executive Pastry Chef Kristy Riley (2025). Photo by Olivia Phu.
In 2023, Kristy fulfilled a dream by opening Pignoli Bakery in Pearland, Texas, where her artistry and love for pastry took center stage. Now, she brings that same dedication to Moody Gardens, where guests can enjoy her exquisite pastry masterpieces at Shearn’s Seafood & Prime Steaks or during the many holiday dining events hosted throughout the year. When she’s not in the kitchen, she enjoys traveling and cherishing time with her husband and daughter. We are excited to see—and taste—the creativity she brings to Moody Gardens!
The World Food Championship (WFC) is thrilled to announce the victor of the highly anticipated 2024 World Food Championship, Bethany Boedicker, Executive Pastry Chef for the Moody Gardens Hotel
Bethany Boedicker, Executive Pastry Chef at Moody Gardens Hotel, Spa & Convention Center
Boedicker, a seasoned professional with over a decade of experience, emerged triumphant after an exhilarating competition against champions from 11 diverse categories. Renowned for her expertise in desserts, Boedicker clinched the esteemed title of the 11th World Food Champion.
The intense two-day culinary battle unfolded at Brightwater: A Center for the Study of Food in Bentonville, Arkansas, where chefs from around the globe showcased their exceptional talents. Guided by esteemed judges Matthew Cooper, Joe “Trae” Basore III, and Timothy Ordway, contestants faced a series of challenges meticulously crafted to push their culinary skills to the limit.
Boedicker expressed her elation at the victory, stating,
“Winning this prestigious title and receiving such a generous prize is an incredible honor. This achievement marks a pinnacle in my career, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to compete among the best in the industry.”
“We are incredibly proud of Bethany’s achievement at the World Food Championships. Her talent and dedication have been evident throughout her 11 years with us, and this win is a testament to her exceptional skill and passion for pastry.”
Leon Garrison, Moody Gardens General Manager
TheWorld Food Championships (WFC) is the premier culinary competition, attracting talented chefs worldwide. Since its inception in 2012, the WFC has transformed competitive cooking and impacted the food industry. With its global audience, the WFC continues to deliver unparalleled culinary experiences and support communities through various partnerships. For more information, please visit www.worldfoodchampionships.com.
Special Note: Bethany will be appearing as a headliner chef at the Galveston Island Wine Festival during Labor Weekend from August 30 to September 1.
Chef Bryan Caswell added to the Galveston Island Wine Festival at Moody Gardens
Galveston Island Wine Festival proudly announces the addition of renowned Chef Bryan Caswell to its esteemed culinary team for this year’s event, set to take place over Labor Day weekend at the breathtaking resort Moody Gardens on Galveston Island.
This addition to the line-up comes as two weeks remain for an early-bird discount of up to 25 percent on tickets and hotel packages through June 30.
Chef Bryan Caswell, a proud Southerner hailing from Lafayette, LA, brings with him a wealth of culinary expertise and a deep-rooted passion for Gulf Coast flavors. A graduate of the prestigious Culinary Institute of America, Caswell honed his skills under the mentorship of Jean Georges Vongerichten, refining his craft in culinary capitals such as New York, Hong Kong, Barcelona, and the Bahamas.
Famed for his innovative approach to seafood, Caswell’s culinary journey has been marked by his commitment to showcasing the freshest catches and locally-sourced produce. His Houston-based restaurant, Reef, has garnered widespread acclaim since its inception in 2007, boasting a rotating menu that highlights over 87 species of Gulf Coast fish. Reef has been lauded by critics and diners alike, earning Caswell numerous culinary accolades, including recognition from Food & Wine, Bon Appétit, and the James Beard Foundation.
In addition to Reef, Caswell has expanded his culinary empire with ventures like Little Bigs and El Real Tex-Mex Café, further solidifying his status as a culinary luminary in the Houston dining scene. His partnership with the Houston Astros has also yielded successful ventures, including Jackson Street BBQ near Minute Maid Park.
Beyond the kitchen, Caswell is an avid outdoorsman, often found indulging his passion for fishing along the Gulf Coast. His love for the sea and its bounty serves as a guiding force in his culinary creations, infusing each dish with a sense of adventure and reverence for nature.
“We are thrilled to welcome Chef Bryan Caswell to the Galveston Island Wine Festival. His reputation as a visionary chef and advocate for Gulf Coast cuisine precedes him, and we are eager to see how his culinary artistry enhances this year’s event.”
John Zendt, ceo of moody gardens
Caswell joins a roster of esteemed culinary talents, including David Cordúa, Paul Miller, Chef James Lundy, Executive Chefs Chris Lopez and BobbyRoss, Executive Pastry Chef Bethany Boedicker, among others. The festival promises an array of exciting events, including the Seven-on-Seven Seafood Extravaganza, Penguins & Pinot: Grand Tasting, Regular Guy Wine Seminar, Brunch and Bubbles, a Bourbon Dinner and more offering attendees a unique opportunity to savor exquisite wines amidst the enchanting ambiance of Moody Gardens.
Experience Life at Moody Gardens, Galveston Island!
Work or play, the tropical splendor surrounds you in this little piece of paradise! Moody Gardens features a variety of unique attractions, a 4-diamond hotel, spa & convention center and an 18-hole seaside-links golf course.
Moody Gardens is a public, non-profit educational destination utilizing nature in the advancement of rehabilitation, conservation, recreation, and research.
