The owner sold the Gerneville restaurant about two years ago after opening the road trip kitchen.
Crista Luedtke, who also owns restaurant Boon Eat + Drink, as well as Hotels Boon Hotel & Spa and Highlands, is selling Road Trip Kitchen to Boon’s chefs.
Now, two Boon’s chefs have worked with Luedtke for 14 years – Carlos Mendez and Rosy Ortega – plan to turn the place into three cultural kitchens, including the Salvadorian Roots of American cuisine and the Mexican heritage of Mendez.
Although Luedtke said it was bittersweet, she said she was proud and excited about Mendez and Ortega.
“It’s natural to help them achieve this, and it’s something I think about getting things straight and they want to take on more things. It’s the perfect marriage for the timing,” Luedtke said.
Luedtke said road trips will continue to serve customers until September 28, with Mendes and Ortega opening three cultures in October. She said the two may close the restaurant while working on the new concept.
“It’s a real feeling for me, so I’m very proud of them and very excited and happy to help them open up,” Luedtke said.
On Boon, Luedtke has a new chef, Alfredo Busgano, who has worked with Mendez and Ortega over the past few weeks.
Luedtke said she will continue to run Boon and her two hotels, but focus more on work-life balance and spend time with her family. She also said her entire team thanked the community for its support over the years.
“For us, it’s all about being a part of the community and serving our locals and visitors,” Luedtke said.
To celebrate the next chapter, Luedtke said they will hold a party on Sunday from 3pm to 7pm to celebrate employees and customers.
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