Chef Jose Garces' Culinary Journey*

Growing up, Chef Garces learned traditional dishes like ceviche, empanadas, and pan de bono from his mother and grandmother, while his father enjoyed grilling steaks. He emphasized the importance of sofrito, a foundational cooking technique using onions, garlic, and peppers, which he still prepares in large batches.

Exploring Latin Culinary Traditions

Jose and Amaris discussed the importance of sofrito in Latin cooking and its variations across families. Jose shared his journey from French classical training to embracing Latin cuisine, highlighting the foundational role of sofrito and other base ingredients in different culinary traditions. They also talked about Jose's experience with paella, which he has been perfecting for 20 years, emphasizing the complexity and precision required to make a great dish. Amaris praised Jose's interpretation of paella, which she found to be authentic and reminiscent of her experiences in Spain.

Brand Expansion Plans

Jose discussed plans to expand the tapas-based concept Amada to Chicago in the spring and Dallas in the fall. He emphasized the importance of perfecting the paella recipe and mentioned that his team would be filming and annotating the process to ensure consistency. Jose also shared his experience with opening various restaurants, including Village Whiskey, and explained the decision-making process behind each venture.

Brand Expansion and Partnership Updates

Jose discussed his brand's expansion to Nashville, planned for late 2026, and highlighted its southern-inspired menu and recent improvements. He mentioned a partnership with SPB Hospitality to enhance the beverage program and emphasized the brand's collaboration with Aramark at the Xfinity Mobile Center. Jose also shared his experience with Cook Unity, a home meal service, where he has been a chef partner since 2021, offering fresh, ready-to-eat meals in six markets. Amaris expressed her positive experience with the service and noted the quality and convenience of the meals.

Community Initiatives and Future Involvements

Jose highlighted the importance of supporting restaurant workers through initiatives like English language classes and health screenings, and how his recently renamed foundation, Communidad Garces, reflects his service-oriented mission. Jose also expressed his excitement for the successful future of his newly-opened Japanese restaurant Okatshe, located in Allentown, PA. And he was very enthusiastic while expressing the value of not only supporting local purveyors, but ensuring the healthiest meals by utilizing local, sustainably sourced ingredients.

*The following description was aided by an AI summarization, with original material included.