It was back in 2017 when I first came across Chef Kellie Joe, one half of the incredible team behind Chicks In Love Pizza Patio. I was instantly in awe of her—her passion, her entrepreneurial spirit, and her dedication to bringing people together through food. Her delivery service back then was all about bringing gourmet, take-and-bake pizzas right to your door….sign me up, right?!
There was just something about her energy and passion that compelled me (for the first time ever) to reach out blindly and offer headshots. Little did I know that one small act would not just be the beginning of growth for both of us, but also the start of a "friendstomer" as she calls it, that has kept us tied ever since, with some empowering ideas on continued growth for us both, and bringing others along with us. Fast forward to today and Chicks And Love Pizza Patio is more than just a pizza business—it’s a true reflection of the love and passion that Kellie and her wife, Vanda, pour into everything they do.
This AAPI, women-owned, LGBTQIA family business has been a cornerstone in the Bay Area since 2009, and it’s grown from farmers' market stalls to something truly special—a backyard farm-to-table experience. A Pop-Up Restaurant, that is the first of its kind in Contra Costa County: a legal Microenterprise Home Kitchen Operation (MEHKO). You can see her feature on the local CBS news here.
Their Pleasant Hill home has been transformed into a beautiful dining oasis, with koi ponds, an outdoor kitchen, a farm-to-table garden, it feels just as magical as it looks. It’s a space that reflects the love and care they put into their food.
Kellie’s Passion for sustainability and community is unmatched. From foraging for mushrooms in the mountains to cultivating their own honey and herbs right in their backyard, every dish they serve tells a story. This is one of her gourmet mushroom delights, I believe it was a Cremini Mushroom, Marinated Artichoke and White Truffle Oil pizza, with Thyme from her back yard.
Check out the seasonal special, "Fall PEARadise"—a personal favorite of mine. It features hand-picked Asian pears sautéed in their own honey, butter, nutmeg, and a hint of salt and pepper, all topped with parmesan, mozzarella, and gorgonzola. And yes, pepper and pears truly do make the perfect pair! Finished with fresh arugula and a drizzle of maple balsamic vinaigrette, this pizza is delicious with Italian or Chicken Apple Sausage. Her creations are one-of-a-kind. I get mine on her gluten-free crust, and it’s the only gluten-free option I not only like but actually prefer!
The best part? If you’re short on time, you can still enjoy her delicious creations! On Thursday nights, grab a hot pizza to go—a farm-fresh, healthy alternative to fast food that supports a local business.
As a photographer, I’m passionate about helping small businesses tell their stories. Like me, Kellie is all about highlighting local, women-owned businesses. Every week, she sends out a newsletter that features a different women-owned business, bringing them into the spotlight. This simple act opens up so many possibilities for these businesses, reaching a whole new audience. Plus, she often partners with other gourmet food makers, adding their specialties to her takeout menu. From Lebanese garlic sauce to gluten-free cookies, there’s always something new and delicious to try!
Watching them grow has been incredible, and I’m all in when it comes to helping them get the attention they deserve. I choke up a bit thinking about how much she’s grown over the years, and I’m so proud of her unwavering entrepreneurship and her incredible vision coming to reality. I’m also thankful that she, yet again, agreed to let me come over with my camera to be one of the first to experience her Chicks and Love Backyard Pizza Patio.
We’re also working on something bigger… we’ve just started conspiring to create a women’s network to support other small businesses. It’s an exciting project, born from the same sense of community that drives Chicks And Love. The pizza may be what draws you in, but the connection and shared passion is what keeps you coming back.
Whether you’re sitting under the overhead lights in their cozy outdoor patio, picking up a HOT pizza to go, or having your event at their home, Kellie and Vanda have created something truly special. And I’m thrilled to continue supporting their vision, whatever “The Queen” has in store for us next, she can count on me to be first in line.
Check out her Instagram (@queenofcrusts) to see more of her culinary adventure from hiking to clamming and, of course, foraging for those famous mushrooms. And if you’re in the area, make sure to reserve your spot at their pizza patio (@chicksandlovepizzapatio) for a truly unforgettable experience!
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