Meet the Chefs
Risa Mealus
Executive Pastry Chef
Born and raised a West coaster, Risa ventured to the East coast to begin her culinary career, returning West to find a home with Papa Haydn 16 years ago. She brings a background in art-inspired craft, balanced with a sensibility for function. Risa revels in the fun and wonder of the pastry arts and the joy of working with a talented dynamic team to create memorable, full-flavored desserts to delight, soothe, and enhance a simple day in the life or the most extravagant occasion.
Elmer Santos
Executive Chef at Papa Haydn Northwest
Born in Guatemala, Elmer came to the United States in 1994, joining the Papa Haydn team shortly after as a dish washer. While he had no formal training, Elmer's passion for food started when he was a child and would cook meals with and for his family. When a position in the kitchen opened, Elmer got to show off his skills and learn new ones. He became the Chef de Cuisine at our sister restaurant Jo Bar & Rotisserie in 2001, and then became Executive Chef for both Papa Haydn Northwest and Jo Bar & Rotisserie in 2018 where he creates inspired, elegant, and beautifully delicious dishes.
John Rogers
Executive Chef at Papa Haydn Sellwood
After studying acting and performing arts at Western Oregon University, John he applied for a job at Papa Haydn, where he remembered coming as a teenager to have dessert after prom, in 2012. He discovered his passion for cooking, and learned he could fulfill his need for creativity and could create something that brought smiles to his community. As the years passed, he was able to learn from great teachers and start taking on more responsibilities. In 2016, John became the sous chef at our Sellwood location, moving up to Executive Chef in 2020.
Ashley Wilson
Head Pastry Chef, Wedding & Custom Desserts
After receiving degrees in Communications and Humanities from Western Oregon University and Patisserie and Baking from Le Cordon Bleu, Ashley pursued a career that would combine her love of event planning and the culinary arts. She joined the Papa Haydn team as Lead Pastry Chef for all custom orders in 2012, working one-on-one with clients for over 10 years. As a 5th generation Oregonian, Ashley finds joy in celebrating milestones with local families, whether it be a Smash Cake for a 1st birthday, an intricate tiered wedding cake, or a spread of miniature desserts.
Jamey Anderson
Head Pastry Chef
Jamey entered the culinary industry from their hometown in Riverside, CA. In school they discovered their love and talent for cooking, and won “Best in Hot Food” in their class. In 2003, Jamey moved to Portland and continued to grow their knowledge and career in food service. After working in a myriad of kitchens and bakeries over the years, from upscale Indian cuisine to owning a cheeseburger cart, Jamey found a home at Papa Haydn. Being able to grow their knowledge and share it with an amazing team while making some of the finest desserts in Portland is a great passion to them.