Gilles Leroux

“Food is like life; it's all about the balance of flavors and experiences.”

Gilles is a Haitian chef who has called Lima home for the past decade. His passion for cooking started as a child, watching his grandmother make traditional Haitian dishes in the kitchen. He brings his own twist to classic Haitian cuisine, infusing Peruvian flavors and fresh seafood into his dishes. His signature look includes a well-groomed stubble and a colorful bandana worn around his head. When he's not cooking up a storm in the kitchen, Gilles can be found practicing capoeira in a nearby park or exploring Lima's vibrant street art scene.

What led you to incorporate Peruvian flavors into your Haitian cooking?

Living in Lima, I was exposed to so many amazing ingredients that I hadn't used before. The fresh seafood, spicy peppers, and unique spices were too good to not try out in my own dishes. Plus, I love experimenting with new flavors and techniques, so it was a natural fit.

What's your favorite dish to cook?

I love making griot, which is a Haitian dish made with crispy fried pork and a tangy citrus sauce. It reminds me of my childhood and the comfort of home-cooked meals. Plus, there's something satisfying about getting that perfect crunch on the pork!