Marisol Lopez

“Cooking is my way of connecting with people and telling my story. Whether it's through a traditional dish from my childhood or something new I've created, I want to share a part of myself with every plate.”

Marisol Lopez is a Chilean chef with a passion for traditional South American flavors. Raised in Santiago, she developed an early interest in cooking and spent countless hours experimenting in the kitchen. After attending culinary school in Valparaiso, Marisol honed her skills at some of the top restaurants in Chile before moving to New York City to expand her culinary horizons. She now owns her own restaurant in Brooklyn, where she combines her Chilean roots with globally inspired dishes. When she's not in the kitchen, Marisol loves exploring the city's art museums and checking out live music shows.

What inspired you to become a chef?

I grew up in a family where food was at the center of everything. My grandmother taught me how to make empanadas when I was little, and that's where my love of cooking began.

What's your favorite dish to cook?

That's a tough one! I love making ceviche because it's a perfect showcase for the fresh seafood we source from local markets.