Home Has No Borders

Cuba was always my starting point, but never my limit. Like every Cuban kid, I dreamed of Miami. Today, after a journey that took me through Nicaragua, Mexico, and even Qatar, I’m here, living that dream – but with my feet firmly planted in the kitchen.”

I’ve been cooking for over 11 years now. It started in Cuba, where I studied food processing. My mom worked at a restaurant, and that’s where I got my first chance. My whole family is in hospitality – my mom was a cashier, my brothers are bartenders… and me, I’m the cook.

From the beginning, I knew this was it for me. No doubt.

I’ve carried Cuban food with me around the world. I cooked in Russia, in Qatar, always holding my flag high. Every place has its own culture, its own rules, different religions – but Cuban food, for me, always has the same soul. Ropa vieja, congrí, that flavor you just can’t fake.

“What do I feel cooking Cuban food outside of Cuba? Pride. It’s in my blood. It’s how I stay present, no matter where I am.”

I’ve worked with people from all over – Filipinos, Nepalis, Mexicans. In the kitchen, we’re all the same. We understand each other without even speaking the same language. It’s something you only live when you’re in it, between the pots and the flames. I’ve never felt like I chose the wrong path. Not even when I was far from home. The kitchen has always held me.

Now in Miami, after a year and a half, I feel like I’ve grown a lot, but I’m just getting started. I want to keep learning, keep exploring, and give my all to whatever comes next. Focused. Because this path is mine, and there’s still a long way to go.

Photos by @pedrojsm89