Our Chef Carlos
Carlos’ inspirational story is one to share. As a young child living in his home state of Zacatecas, Mexico, he learned to help prep family meals with his mother. Roasting chiles was one of his favorite things to do. He recalls the savory aromas that filled the entire house.
In 1980, at the age of 20, he ventured to the United States to find the American Dream. He spoke only Spanish. Only speaking Spanish he enrolled in English classes. In 1986, President Ronald Reagan implemented an amnesty program that gave undocumented immigrants the opportunity to become legal residents if they had arrived in the country prior to January 1, 1982 and had no history of crimes, could read, write, and speak English and pass a civics test. Carlos enrolled in night classes and worked hard to learn civics. He successfully passed his interview in English and civics, and He proudly earned his citizenship.
Experience
He worked full time with the same employer since arriving in the country. He worked all entry level positions and earned his way to Executive Chef and Club Manager where in 2020 he celebrated his 40-year anniversary.
Unfortunately, due to the COVID19 pandemic, he was placed on furlough and for the first time in his life, applied for unemployment benefits. About 5 months later, he was informed that his contract was not going to be renewed.
New Road
At age 60…no job! What now? The financial burdens quickly became very real and this unfamiliar reality became the focus. There was only one action he could take, and that was to move forward. His optimistic mindset is a gift and he jumped in at full force to do everything possible to survive for his family.
He has been blessed with many talents. One of those is his love for food and this is where the journey begins. Introducing, KEKAS. A delicious type of deep-fried turnover made of corn masa filled with jack cheese and a deliciously prepared meat of your choice: Asada, Pastor, or Chicken. The KEKAS will be garnished with lettuce, tomatoes, and queso fresco. They will be served with choice of red or green salsa and sour cream. He will also offer a variety of specialty KEKAS in the near future.
We look forward to your support!
