Today on our episode #421 of All in the Industry, Shari Bayer's guest is Jorge Vallejo, chef and owner of Quintonil in Mexico City, a 2 Michelin star restaurant, which is currently ranked #3 on The World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025. Jorge opened Quintonil in 2012 along with his wife Alejandra Flores (Ale), who is responsible for the restaurant’s exceptional hospitality; and is leading the charge of new-wave Mexican gastronomy, focusing on fresh, local ingredients and traditional Mexican flavors and techniques weaved into modern preparations. Shari was thrilled to dine again at Quintonil since her first visit in 2018, when she initially met Jorge, and sit down with him for this in-person conversation. She is also proud that Jorge is a contributor to her Chefwise book. 

In addition, today's show features Shari's PR tip to be a good person; and wonderful solo dining experience at Maximo, a contemporary Mexican restaurant in Mexico City, led by Eduardo 'Lalo' Garcia and his wife Gabriela Lopez. Shari also shares details about additional dining experiences on her trip to CDMX, including her outstanding lunch at Quintonil with n/a pairings; delicious tacos at Santiago Moctezuma's Maizajo – 100% nixtamal taco bar; a seafood extravaganza at Tomas Bermudez's La Docena; late night eats at Botanico's lush outdoor terrace; incredible pastries at Panaderia Rosetta, & Cafe Nin – both beautiful locations by Elena Reygadas, who is also a #chefwisechef. Plus, authentic Mexican breakfast at El Cardenal Ciudadela; churros at Churreria El Moro; wine cellar lunch at the Intercontinental Mexico City; and fabulous drinks at Handshake Speakeasy – #1 The World’s 50 Best Bars 2024 and Best Bar in North America 2025; as well as local entertainment at Lucha Libre. (47:22)

Many thanks and congratulations to Jorge, Ale, and their entire team and friends for their outstanding hospitality. Loved visiting your city!  

Support for this episode comes from the Institute of Culinary Education (ICE). To learn more, visit ICE.edu today.

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