From Dishwasher to trendy Chef: Hugo Ortega's journey

Hugo Ortega's identify is regular in Houston. he's executive chef/co-owner at 4 true native eating places - Hugo's, Backstreet Café, Xochi and Caracol. ultimate 12 months, he received ideal Chef of the Southwest on the prestigious James Beard Awards.

however he not ever forgets his roots. growing to be up in rural Mexico, he herded 300 goats and discovered to grind corn for masa. He credits his grandmother with being the basic affect on his ordinary Mexican delicacies.

As a young person, Ortega crossed the border into Texas and finally discovered a job as a janitor. He spent a short time homeless earlier than he acquired a job as a dishwasher at Backstreet Café in River very well. It turned into there that he met executive chef Tracy Vaught, a woman who would exchange his existence.

ABC13 & You caught up with Chef Hugo Ortega to hear about his event to fitting a celebrated chef.

Ortega's four eating places are all participating in Houston Restaurant Weeks from August 1 - September three. The month-lengthy fundraiser for the Houston meals financial institution elements discounted menu fees at many of Houston's foremost restaurants.

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