Project Mindset

Kevin was born Kansas City, Missouri and immediately following his birth, he and his family moved to La Quinta, California. Kevin relocated to Orange County after graduating high school to continue his education which is where he found his passion for the hospitality industry. Kevin began his professional career with Blooming Brands Restaurant Group's, Fleming's Steakhouse and Wine Bar, back in 2007, where he also met Partner, Russel Bendel. He advanced his career by traveling and assisting the openings of numerous Flemings locations and took on an important roll in the expansion and growth of the company. After his time with Flemings, Kevin soon joined Russ and his Partners, at Vine Restaurant and Bar in San Clemente. As a group, they designed, built, and opened Ironwood Cellar.Craft.Cook in May of 2016. Ironwood was quickly named the Best New Restaurant in Orange County by the Golden Foodie Awards. The team has now moved on to a new wine country cuisine concept, Olea Cellar.Craft.Cook located in Newport Bea