About Elinor

Elinor Catriel is the chef and owner of Elinor’s and Shorashim—two culinary concepts that reflect the parts of cooking that inspire her most: honoring her roots, with a fresh, modern twist.

Originally from Israel, Elinor always dreamed of raising her three children in a home filled with the same warmth, tradition, and love she grew up with. Living far from her home country deepened her commitment to preserving her cultural heritage—and she found the most meaningful way to share it was through food.

Elinor’s culinary journey led her into the world of pastry and baking, where every dish became a tribute to her story—rich with soul and steeped in tradition. Her passion eventually brought her to serve as head chef at Pekara Bakery in Illinois for nearly a decade. That experience helped sharpen her craft and deepen her love for the creative process behind every loaf, pastry, and plate.

Today, you can find Elinor with her husband and three children in Los Angeles, where she channels her passion into everything she bakes—handmade, soulful, and inspired by the flavors of her grandmother’s Yemeni kitchen. She’s a true dough-whisperer: in love with yeast, obsessed with baking, and absolutely hooked on the smell of fresh pastries out of the oven.