The Crew
The Team Behind The Journey
From capturing epic surf to uncovering authentic culinary experiences, our award-winning production team travels the globe to tell stories that inspire exploration and adventure.
Host
Surf ‘n Gourmet, hosted by Monique Kitamura, a prominent California big-wave surfer and chef, featured in Surfer Magazine, is a thrilling series that combines the excitement of the sport of surfing, the art of gourmet food and the exploration of new cultures. Think Anthony Bourdain/ Padma Lakshmi with a surfboard.
The series is similar in style and quality to “No Reservations”, “100 Foot Wave”, “Taste the Nation” and Gordon Ramsey’s “Unchartered”.
Layne Stratton
Director / Cinematographer
Originally from Ventura, CA, Layne is a professional sports cinematographer in the action sports world working with such companies as Red Bull, Thrasher Magazine, Hurley, Surfer Magazine, World Surf League and more.
Layne also shoots and directs music videos, fashion, and commercial work for clients such as ASAP Rocky, Guitar Center, Hobie, Los Angeles Times and Chipotle, among others.
Producer / Editor
A native of Bogotá, Colombia, Frank seamlessly integrates producing, directing and editing, ensuring a cohesive and personalized creative workflow.
A highly awarded industry professional, Frank has received a National Edward R. Murrow Award, multiple regional ADDYs, Tellys, Emmys, and special recognition for innovative corporate content.
Known for a commitment to excellence, collaboration and storytelling, Frank continues to build lasting relationships with colleagues and clients.
Producer / Editor
Tom’s love of the visual arts led to film storytelling, producing and shooting national TV commercials.
His award winning work includes; commercials, documentaries and branded content.
Specializing in travel films, Tom has created campaigns for the Costa Rica Board of Tourism, the Caribbean Tourism Organization and Princess Cruise Lines, as well as many others.
An avid surfer living in Melbourne Beach, Florida, Tom ‘s love and knowledge of surfing, producing, and creating beautiful images, makes him the perfect choice to lead Surf ‘n Gourmet.
Editor
After 20 years being part of South Africa’s film industry and recipient of the M-NET Africa Award for best editor feature film and the Artes Award for best editing of a TV Series, Nena moved to Los Angeles to work for Walt Disney Pictures.
After 3 years at Disney, she embarked on a successful freelance editing career in the USA for the next decades.
Her credits include work for National Geography, Animal Planet, Discovery, A&E and History networks.
Nena is well versed in different styles and techniques across multiple genres and is noted for her strong storytelling ability and her deep passion for her craft.