Head Chef at Pascual

Currently I love chefs and industry Substacks. People are tapping into new platforms to be creative and express vulnerability and their expertise. I love reading them.

When I’m overwhelmed, I look into how amazing my team is. It’s inspiring. Getting out of my head is a form of meditation, and the more I do it, the more peace I feel.

I find inspiration in movement. I like moving; when I’m stuck, I keep moving, and ideas will flow.

Teamwork is such an important skill. I don’t believe in individuality — I truly believe we thrive when we tap into everyone’s unique gifts. The energy and strength of a community will always surpass what one person can achieve alone. Plus, happiness is best shared.

There’s a quality I gravitate toward in people who always strive to do things right. It doesn’t matter what they’re doing — they will always give their best. Even without experience, these individuals learn the most in any space because their drive comes from taking pride in every task they take on.

My friend and mentor Daniela Soto-Innes gave me this advice that has stuck with me: Take care of your body; you are an athlete and should take care of your body like one.

For my team, we have a group chat to keep communication positive and ensure everyone is part of the creative process for dishes and ideas. We share our meals and inspirations, making sure we’re all aligned and working toward the same goals.