Lizette Rivera is queen of the popcorn world’s three S’s: specialty, savory and sweet. Rivera made gluten- and peanut-free puffs her alternative snack after being diagnosed with celiac disease in 2012, then decided to share them with the rest of the world via a tasty new business, the Chef Inspired Gourmet Popcorn Company. Once you experience the irresistible wonders of Rivera’s funky flavor lineup — green apple, Windy City (a caramel and cheddar mix), birthday cake and many more — you’ll be glad she did. Order a handful of 2-cup, snack-size bags to try multiple varieties at once, or buy a large 14-cup bag and divvy up your favorite popcorn into plastic baggies to create your own gourmet snack packs. Remember, these are serious kernels for the Adventurous Snacker™. But it’s like Rivera says, “Who doesn’t like popcorn?” —Meaghan Habuda
This article appears in Best of The Bay 2016.
