Las Tapas
710-714 King Street
Old Town Alexandria
703-836-4000
www.lastapas.us

Chef Reyes presents his Paella Marinera

When did you first become interested in cooking? Why did you decide to pursue a culinary career? 

The year was 1992 - I was working as a “prep guy” in the restaurant business and one day it donned on me that I could actually take my job to a whole other level! The rest is history.

Who have been the biggest inspirations for your career?

Every chef I have worked for and with have inspired me. None more than Chef Ramsey, however.

What are some of the qualities that you feel a successful chef should have?

You must have a fierce passion for cooking!
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What do you enjoy most about your work? What are your greatest stresses? Your greatest joys?

Keeping my kitchen in perfect working order brings me great enjoyment. I get stressed when I see cooks who cook “just because” rather than having a passion for it. Besides my children, having a great night in the restaurant when everything runs smoothly is a great joy!

If any chef in the world could prepare you a meal, who would it be?

Chef Ramsey

With everything that you’ve accomplished in your career, are you still learning as a chef?

I learn something new every day of the year. Running a kitchen is a complex operation.
 
What’s your guilty food pleasure?

Rack of Lamb and Chocolate.

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