Chef Maria Mazon was a waitress at a Mexican-American restaurant outside Tucson when she found herself in the kitchen giving the cooks ideas for what to make. Today, she is the celebrated owner of Boca restaurant and Sona bodega in Tucson, Arizona, and has appeared on Chopped and Season 18 of Top Chef. Tacos, salsas, and the cuisine of Sonora, Mexico, where she was raised, are Chef Maria’s passions. “I’m here to represent my Mexico,” she explained. “I would not change my story for the world.” 

Chef Maria joins host Kerry Diamond to talk about her career, the confidence that helped her excel in the kitchen, the appliance tattooed on her thigh (want to guess?), the Tucson culinary scene, and more. Catch this episode and learn how Chef Maria puts her heart and soul into everything she does, from her food to her businesses to her life. 

Thank you to Graduate Hotels for supporting this episode. If you’d like to hear from Chef Maria in person, join us at the Graduate Hotel Tuscon event happening Thursday, Feb. 23rd. Tickets here. There will be a panel discussion with Maria and other local food personalities plus snacks & sips.

Want to come to Cherry Bombe’s Jubilee on April 15th in NYC? Get your ticket here.

This episode of Radio Cherry Bombe was recorded at CityVox Studios in NYC. Our theme song is by the band Tralala. Subscribe to our newsletter and check out past episodes and transcripts here.

More on Maria: Instagram, Boca Restaurant, Sona Tortillas, Borderlands Brewing Co.