Enrique Olvera was born on January 29, 1976 in Mexico City, Mexico. From a young age, he displayed a passion for cooking and a curiosity for flavors. Growing up in a city known for its vibrant food scene, Olvera was exposed to a rich culinary heritage that would shape his future career as a chef.
After completing high school, Olvera made the decision to pursue a career in the culinary arts. He enrolled in The Culinary Institute of America, where he honed his skills and developed a deep understanding of the fundamentals of cooking. It was here that he discovered his love for Mexican cuisine and began to experiment with traditional ingredients and techniques.
After graduating from culinary school, Olvera returned to Mexico City and began working at various restaurants to gain experience and further refine his craft. In 2000, he opened his own restaurant, Pujol, which quickly gained recognition for its innovative take on traditional Mexican dishes. Pujol soon became a destination for food enthusiasts from around the world, and in 2013, it was ranked the 17th best restaurant in the world.
Throughout his career, Olvera has continued to push the boundaries of Mexican cuisine, blending traditional flavors with modern techniques to create dishes that are both innovative and delicious. In 2008, he published a book titled La Nueva Cocina Mexicana, which showcased his unique approach to cooking and further solidified his reputation as a culinary trailblazer.
Off the kitchen, Olvera is a loving husband to Allegra Piacentini, whom he married in a private ceremony surrounded by family and friends. The couple shares a passion for travel and food, often exploring new culinary destinations together and drawing inspiration from different cultures and traditions.
In 2017, Olvera announced that he would be expanding his culinary empire by bringing his New York City based restaurant, Cosme, to Los Angeles. This move solidified his status as a global chef with a growing presence in the international food scene. With his dedication to innovation and his commitment to showcasing the flavors of Mexico, Olvera continues to inspire and delight food lovers around the world.
Olvera shares his Mexican roots with fellow chef Patricia Gallo, and his passion for elevating traditional cuisine to new heights has earned him a place among the culinary elite. With his creative vision and unwavering dedication to his craft, Olvera continues to make a lasting impact on the world of gastronomy.