Barbara Brass and Chef Wolfgang Puck
Barbara Brass joined Wolfgang Puck Catering as we launched the company in 1998. Her passion for food and wine inspires her to create elaborate and exciting menus for her clients Barb attributes her success to really understanding each event and her clients; she knows how to please a crowd. This is Barbara’s favorite time of the year and Wolfgang Puck Catering Los Angeles’ busiest: “Awards Season”.
How did you get your start with us?
I had been working with Carl [CEO of WPC] for years, and was excited to grow the new business when he asked me to join thirteen years ago.
Which awards shows are you involved in?
The Critics Choice Awards (January 12), Directors Guild Awards (January 28), the American Society of Cinematographers Awards (February 12), and the Oscars® (February 26). It all started with the Oscars.
This is obviously an exciting and stressful time for you, what do you love and what is challenging about awards season?
This is a fun time of the year for me. What’s disappointing is that I am so busy all year; I don’t have any time to see any of the movies, so just around this time I try to rush and see them all so I can talk to our guests at the events. I love being behind the scenes, the excitement and the energy. There is nothing like seeing some of the dresses and fashion up close. It is a great feeling to be part of something huge that everyone watches on TV and know that I had something to do with it.
What is the most memorable awards show dish?
The Chicken Pot Pie from the 2010 Academy Awards® Governors Ball.
Chicken Pot Pie with Shaved Black Truffles and Roasted Vegetables
Tell us some of your most memorable moments from awards dinners.
Walking the red carpet with Wolf is always an experience.
We once we received a request from a young actor for McDonald’s at the Oscars, so we sent someone out to pick it up from him!
When I was just starting out I had to ask a very high profile guest to stop smoking inside of the awards show venue. He took one last puff and blew it in my face.
At the 73rd Academy Awards when Julia Roberts won, she visited us in our catering kitchen.
Who do you wear to the Oscars?
I always choose a dress by my good friend and designer Rachel Pally! They are so wearable.
How do you unwind after awards season?
I book a trip to a vineyard in either Napa or Sonoma and eat, sleep and drink!
What is your guilty pleasure?
Caviar and a Snappy NY Hot Dog
