Back in 1982, Martin Cardenas crossed the Mexican border in search of the American dream. Originally from Michoacán, México, he tells the story of how his first job was as a dishwasher in California. Through hard work and passion for the culinary world, he quickly rose to success and has managed the kitchens of numerous restaurant chains throughout the United States. His long journey in the food business includes opening a restaurant in Dallas named “Frijoles,”as well as, “La Hacienda.” Later, he moved to Florida where he ran the culinary operations at the Key Largo Sheraton, and then opened his own restaurant “Chiles” in Key Largo. Finding a home in South Florida,Cardenas opened his family-owned business Cancun Grill in Miami Lakes 29 years ago. With great success, executive chef/owner opened a second location in Doral a year ago. To decorate this large restaurant, he brought over original hand made furniture from Jalisco and Oaxaca Mexico. He even brought in a Mexican artist, Olga Zuno to create an impressive mural that depicts the process of tortilla making. The floors are also custom handmade creating a pattern of a “Pico de Gallo.”Chef Cardenas has traveled extensively throughout Mexico discovering the different tastes of each region. You will find these regional flavors in all his dishes, to which he adds his signature touch. The dishes are not too spicy and are homemade from scratch. The ingredients he uses are locally sourced. Others, like the avocados are imported from Mexico, as he says they have a creamier texture. Their octopus is from the Yucatan region which are smaller and tastier.WHEN ASKED WHAT’S HIS SECRET TO SUCCESS:“Cooking with love, and treating the guests like owners”“It’s an honor to cook for my guests, who I consider are the actual owners of Cancun Grill. Every person that walks in is treated special and we want them to have a wonderful time,”Cardenas says.CHEF’S SIGNATURE DISHES: Carnitas Michoacán, Cochinita Pibil,Barbacoa, Mole, Pulpo al Pastor,Tacos Gobernador and homemade Guacamole. Their Sunday Brunch is epic! Everything is made fresh and inspired by a variety of traditional Mexican dishes. They offer a taco station, omelette station, carving station, various salads, ceviche, guacamole, desserts, and more. You can even find unlimited margaritas—and the best—Live Mariachis! SIGNATURE DRINKS:Their Margaritas are made with fresh orange juice and lemon juice and agave. Must try: Paloma, Skinny Señorita, Pepino Diablo, Coronarita, Cadillac Margarita, and frozen margaritas. You can visit their website atwww.cancungrilldoral.com or Instagram: @cancungrilldoral for hours of operation or booking an event. They also cater to homes and businesses. By: Nancy Esteves
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