Name: Luis Alvarez
Snapchef Location: Providence Office
Position: Cook
What experience in your life led to you interested in food and cooking?
The art of culinary has always been a subject that has always intrigued me. I’ve always passionately loved creating dished from scratch and experimenting with new flavors to create a rollercoaster of flavors.
Describe the moment when you decided that you wanted to pursue a career in the culinary field.
I have a background in corrections as well as many years in the mental health field. I recently was involved in a bad car accident that changed my life dramatically. Due to the accident, I have had to make dramatic changes and I figured now was the time to start a culinary career.
What challenges have you faced – and what obstacles have you had to overcome – to pursue your career in the culinary field?
It is scary but also a thrill to change careers. All I’ve ever known was working in corrections. I had to make the decision ‘should I stay or should I go?’ I had to put everything I had learned on hold and started everything from scratch.
How have friends and family reacted to your career choice?
My friends and family are happy and thrilled that I have finally took initiative on something that I am profoundly passionate about.
What do you like most about working in a professional kitchen?
Honestly, my favorite part is having someone come back from their work break and tell me, “I haven’t had a burger this good in a long time!” is something that always makes me smile.
What’s your favorite comfort food?
I have a dish for every mood out there. I like lobster mac and cheese for the days fall, seafood sound for winter nights, and grilled steak and dirty rice for the summer. There are just too many to describe.
What is your favorite thing about working at Snapchef?
My favorite thing about working with Snapchef is that I have been given a chance. I am not saying it but everyone here are truly honest people that will teach you everything you need to know correctly. This is not your typical type of corporate training, but they train and prepare you for success.
What is your advice to those interested in pursuing a career in the culinary field?
The best advice and I can give to any one is that there are only so many tomorrows you have left. Live your wildest dreams because when you come to realize, you will be old.
What are some of your other hobbies outside of cooking?
Besides cooking, I play semi-professional football. I also go fishing camping, shooting at the range and sometimes enjoy a nice cigar by the water. But most importantly, I love spending time with my family.
