Chef Israel Alvarez Molina comes from a background where Nixtamal Tortillas are an essential part of every meal. After working as Chef de Cuisine at Pujol in Mexico City, one of the world’s best restaurants, Chef Israel moved to Canada in 2008. When he arrived in Canada, Chef Israel experienced a lack of identity through the loss of a vital connection to the cuisine of his heritage. The texture, aroma, flavour, and complexity of Nixtamal Tortillas was missing and along with it a sense of connection to culture. While trying to rebuild his new life as a Canadian, Chef Israel envisioned using his skills to bring the experience of Nixtamalized Corn to his new home. Using his knowledge of Mexican gastronomy as a foundation Chef Israel is showcasing the terroir of his home in the Pacific Northwest.
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“In Victoria, chef Israel Alvarez is not only keeping the tradition alive, he’s found a way to fuse his cultural heritage with that of the local landscape”.
– Daniel ball
“His dishes offer respite from our day-to-day life, with ancient kernels and an honest approach that allows you to savour Mexican culture”.
– Chelsea Forman
“No matter where he hangs his apron, Israel Alvarez’s mission remains the same: to share his culture through terroir”.
– Twyla Campbell
“It’s like having fresh potatoes or potatoes out of a box … like having fresh-baked bread from a bakery or processed bread … like freshly ground espresso or instant coffee,” says Alvarez. “The difference in quality is very big.”
– ADRIAN LAM