Chef Cristina Santiago’s passion for desserts earned her culinary diploma at California Culinary Academy in San Francisco, CA. Daughter of Melo Santiago, famous owner of Melo’s and Carmelo’s Steakhouse, Chef Cristina assisted in their family business concentrating on operations and headed the Pastry Department. 

Due to her innovative and creative talent, Chef Cristina attracted several high praises from prominent food critics and guests complimenting her great desserts with her modern art presentation. These motivated her to pursue her passion. She opened Sweet Bella, named after her only daughter, and it was an instant success. Within three years of opening her own pastry shop, the Philippine Daily Inquirer awarded her Chocolatta as “The Best Dessert of 2007.” She continued to receive this highly sought-after recognition in 2009 for her Strawberry Charlotte and again in 2011 for her Pearl cake.

"When I create a dessert, I want to make sure that I connect with people giving them a “WOW” experience from the moment they receive their dessert down to the last bite, says Chef Cristina."

Chef Cristina is now a celebrated Chef for her excellent dessert combinations.