Born and raised in vibrant Miami, Florida, Chef Manny grew up surrounded by his Cuban heritage's rich flavors and traditions.
His culinary journey began at home, watching his grandmother cook instinctively, never relying on recipes, and teaching him that true cooking is about trusting your palate. It’s a lesson he carries with him even after his formal training in culinary school, and it’s what makes his dishes so personal and soulful.
While Chef Manny has worked in Michelin-starred kitchens in both Miami and NYC, his heart belongs to comfort food. A slow-cooked stew or a simple fish with lime juice transports him home, reminding him that food is more than just sustenance—it’s a way to connect.
For Manny, cooking is his deepest form of communication, where he expresses himself through the flavors he creates. It’s no surprise that his favorite part of being in the kitchen is the rhythm and timing, where every moment matters in building a dish that tells a story.
Throughout his career, Chef Manny has climbed the ranks, working his way from prep cook to Chef de Cuisine, and in that time, he’s had the honor of cooking for luminaries like Hillary Clinton, Seth Rogen, and the legendary Chef Daniel Boulud. But no matter who’s at the table, he believes the secret ingredient in any meal is the people you’re eating it with.
When he’s not in the kitchen, you’ll find Manny outdoors, enjoying the natural beauty of the Florida Keys. Whether he’s fishing, hiking, or playing basketball, he’s always seeking inspiration from the world around him. And if you catch him humming a tune while cooking, you might just discover his secret talent—he can sing a bit too!