Ivan Cruz

My greatest inspiration in cooking is my grandma, whose love was expressed through every dish she made. Her ability to create unforgettable flavors from simple ingredients taught me that food is more than sustenance—it’s a way to connect and care for others. I’m also inspired by the people who believed in me and helped me rise. Their support drives me to honor them through my craft, creating dishes that tell a story of resilience, love, and gratitude.

My favorite dish to make is a tough choice between pasta and tacos, but I’d have to go with pasta. There’s something soulful about transforming simple ingredients into a rich, comforting dish. Crafting fresh pasta, balancing flavors in the sauce, and watching people’s faces light up with the first bite is an unforgettable feeling. It’s a dish that brings people together—filled with tradition, creativity, and a lot of love.

If I won $25,000, I’d invest it into opening a small deli—a place where I can share my passion for crafting delicious, heartfelt dishes. But it wouldn’t just be about the business; I’d dedicate one day each week to offering free meals to those in need. Food has the power to bring people together and uplift communities, and this would be my way of giving back—nourishing both body and soul.