Be the first to know what’s heating up at our eclectic cantina! Check out our latest news, events, and hot-off-the-pass promotions to keep the good times rolling.
Born in Hidalgo, Mexico, a small province one hour north of Mexico City, Chef Juan Alvarez’s passion for culinary arts was kindled by his family’s rich kitchen traditions and the vibrant markets he frequented with his mother. Despite growing up in a family of engineers, Juan’s culinary ambitions were ignited by a pivotal internship that led him to embrace a career in cooking.
Chef Juan’s culinary journey began with a degree from Universidad Popular Autónoma del Estado de Puebla (UPAEP) in Puebla, Mexico. He gained valuable experience working at a summer camp in New York, where he met his wife and formed lasting friendships with fellow chefs, some of whom he works with today. His career advanced through prestigious roles at The Little Nell in Aspen, a five-star, five-diamond resort, and Disney Cruise Line. Upon relocating to Canada in 2014, Chef Alvarez distinguished himself at the Senator Hotel in Saskatoon, before making his mark in Toronto as part of The Walrus’s opening team and later as Head Chef at the renowned plant-based restaurant Rosalinda.
Inspired by the best ingredients available, Chef Alvarez’s cooking style blends various cuisines and techniques, rooted in the bold, punchy flavours of Hispanic cuisine and his love of Mexican street food. As the Chef de Cuisine at Ceci Bar, he’s eager to bring a creative flair to every plate, blending distinctive elements in innovative ways.
Beyond the kitchen, Chef Alvarez enjoys swimming, soccer, and exploring Toronto’s diverse culinary landscape, all while spending quality time with his wife.
