AMUZAE

Food is my passion. Some of my fondest memories are based around food. From slurping down my first dozen of oysters at age five to tasting fresh Mahi-Mahi that I caught when I was ten.  I credit much of my cooking passion to my parents, both whom are excellent cooks. Their love of food permeated my soul.

I was born and raised in Central America and finally ended up in Florida. I was always experiencing different cultures and exotic foods. Originally I was supposed to be a Chemical Engineer.  I spent my college years at The University of Florida (Go Gators!!!) where I got my degree in Chemical Engineering just to find out that it was not for me.  Eventually, I moved back home where I got a job at a country club as a bus boy. Two months later, I was promoted to sous chef. This was when I saw my true culinary potential. From there, I packed up my bags and headed off to The Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY. Two years later, I earned my degree in Culinary Arts. 

Since graduating in 2005, I have had many amazing culinary experiences. I traveled to Spain where I worked in one of the most prestigious kitchens in Europe, I helped start-up a restaurant in Orange County, NY, and assisted in bringing it to a four-star status; and I have met some of the most influential chefs in this world. Needless to say, I finally found my niche in the culinary world.

Food is my passion! My goal as a chef is to spark the excitement that I have about food in everyone that I cook with.  Whether it be through cooking classes, demonstrations, or a simple meal; may I enable a culinary explosion in you!

My Philosophy:

Making really good food is simple when you use fresh, quality ingredients.  Couple this with an interest to learn and try new things, and you've got an amazing food experience.   

Photography by Chris Ramirez