Tara Monsod
Executive Chef, Animae & Le Coq
Tara Monsod brings over a decade of kitchen experience, a lifetime of passion, and a culinary perspective shaped by her upbringing as a Filipino-American to her role as Executive Chef of Puffer Malarkey Collective’s Le Coq and ANIMAE in San Diego. Monsod’s culinary journey includes positions at acclaimed San Diego restaurants, including Juniper & Ivy, Herringbone, Burlap, and Mozza.
In summer 2021, Monsod assumed the role of executive chef at ANIMAE, immediately garnering a loyal following and accolades for her reinterpretation of the restaurant’s culinary origins through dishes revelatory of her Southeast Asian heritage. During her tenure, she became a three-time James Beard Award Semifinalist, a testament to her bold culinary voice and leadership. Monsod was later named San Diego’s first-ever James Beard Foundation Best Chef California Finalist in April 2024 — recognition that reflects her commitment to her craft and the supportive, positive environment she’s established to nurture the growth of her team.
Beyond The Kitchen
Featured In
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![A variety of gourmet dishes on a wooden table, including a plate of grilled meat, a slice of corn casserole, a roast with greens and sauce, and three small bowls of sauces and accompaniments.]()
Sunset Magazine
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![Tara Monsod wearing a brown apron cooks meat over an open flame grill in a busy kitchen.]()
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![Chefs holding spiny lobsters at Tuna Dockside Market near the water, with tents and other vendors in the background.]()
National Geographic
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![People sharing a variety of dishes including steak, chicken, salad, and desserts around a wooden table.]()
Los Angeles Times
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![Night view of Le Coq restaurant in La Jolla with large arched windows, outdoor seating, and a tree beside the entrance; moon visible in the sky.]()
San Diego Union Tribune
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![A bowl of mussels with White Wine, Blue Cheese, Spigarello]()
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![Chef Tara Monsod in a black apron preparing multiple black plates of food in a kitchen.]()
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![Interior of Le Coq restaurant with brick walls, framed art, green plants, and rows of tables set with plates, glasses, napkins, and small candles.]()
On The Pass Podcast
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![A plate of large cooked prawns garnished with sliced red chili and herbs, served in a spicy sauce, with a person’s hand picking up one of the prawns. Surrounding dishes include various appetizers, dips, and drinks on a wooden table.]()
Five Rules For A Good Life
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![Tara Monsod shopping at a farmer's market in Little Italy San Diego with fresh vegetables on display, under a green canopy.]()
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![Onion tart with Short Rib, Caramelized Onion, Gruyère]()
Andrew, Steven, and Adam
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![Chef Tara Monsod in the kitchen with her team smiling about to take a caviar bump.]()
KPBS Midday edition
Partnerships & Collaborations
Get In Touch
Interested in collaborating, booking Chef Tara for an event, or connecting for press opportunities?