It Started With A Dream
Pastry chef Michelle McClintock takes inspiration from the flavors and dishes her mom made for her as a child. Kabibi translates to “shell” in Tagalog, the national language of Philippines, which is a reference to Michelle’s nickname, Shelly.
The bakery is an homage to her mom and a love letter to their Filipino roots. Her mom has dreamed of opening a Filipino restaurant, but never had the opportunity or resources. With Kabibi, Michelle wishes to make her mom proud with the Filipino flavors of their culture.
Kabibi is currently a pop up bakery licensed by Los Angeles county.
About The Pastry Chef
Hi! I’m Michelle, but my family & friends call me Shelly! I cook. I write. I create.
My earliest memories revolve around food. Whether it be learning how to bake chocolate chip cookies with my dad, or rolling rice balls for ginataang bilo bilo with my lola (grandma), I have always had an appreciation for all things food!
As I grew older, I was ready to pursue a Fine Arts degree at Cornish College in Seattle, but I took a detour into the kitchen that’s happily changed the course of my life and career. Since 2014, I’ve pursued my twin passions of dessert and art, aiming to create work that inspires, creates community, and piques the curiosity of food.
I learned to professionally bake at Oregon Culinary Institute in Oregon, toiled through cake shops, high production bakeries, and hotels. As well as, had the privilege of working for celebrity chef Ludo Lefebvre at Petit Trois, famous French patisserie Laduree Paris, and Michelin Guide restaurant Perle Restaurant.
With a deep love for desserts, I strive to honor my roots and culture through my baking and art. One day, I would love to open up a store front and win a James Beard Award! Currently, I reside in the Los Angeles county area with my husband and our dog.