Yonsi - Line Cook
“I’ve seen some pretty crazy things working in restaurant kitchens. Some years back, during an insane dinner rush, two cooks quit and walked out. Before even having time to react, the guy next to me cut his hand open. He ended up cauterizing the wound on the stove and kept working. Some crazy shit.”
Esmeralda - Dishwasher
I’ve always loved to cook, not just for my family, but as a profession. I was a line cook at a really known casual Cuban restaurant here, but once I reached my position, there was no where further for me to go. I felt like I had so much more to explore and to learn, so I ended up seeking new opportunities elsewhere - in more upscale restaurants. I was offered a job as a dishwasher to start, and I took it. It’s a crucial job, without it the kitchen would fail. I take pride in everything I do and this is all just part of that amazing learning process.
Nando Chang - Chef
My passions are split between music and culinary. when I was 10 I started peeling potatoes for a restaurant in Peru, after working a couple of days, I understood the effect music could have on people. We would get together on our breaks just to listen for a few minutes - it’s amazing the effect music can have on you, it can change your energy.
My father and sister have been my biggest inspiration to stay in this field. It’s like my two passions are fueling each other, making me stronger and feeding my soul. These are the two ways I have to really express myself and I couldn’t choose between one or the other.
I’m hoping my music will inspire other cooks and chefs to pursue their dreams.