Randy Cantu

Connect Who or what inspires you to cook?

Cooking is deeply personal to me, inspired primarily by my Mexican grandmother, whose love and dedication in the kitchen brought my family together. Her passion for food and the way she infused every meal with care left a lasting impression on me. My brother, a chef, also motivates me with his skill and creativity, pushing me to explore and appreciate the art of cooking even more. Together, they’ve shaped my love for food and the joy of preparing meals for others.

What's your all time favorite dish to make?

I love cooking simple, comforting meals that bring people together, from classic green chili chicken enchiladas to Cajun chicken and shrimp pasta. But my absolute favorite dish to make is classic picadillo, a recipe passed down from my grandma. The savory beef paired with red Spanish rice, bacon-infused refried beans, and soft, fresh homemade flour tortillas always reminds me of her kitchen and the love she put into every meal. It’s a dish that feels like home, full of family and tradition

What would you do with the $25,000?

I’d use the $25,000 to open my dream restaurant with my brother, rebuilding what was lost during the pandemic. Our goal is to create a space where family and community come together over great food. We’ll focus on the comfort and warmth that has always kept us close—cooking dishes we love, like those we grew up with. This restaurant will be a tribute to our roots, a place where everyone feels like family, and every meal brings people together, just as it always has for us.