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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.
Food has always held an important place in Chef Andrew Piccinin’s life. The family dinner table built strong connections that flourished when he decided to become a cook, and has directed his career towards food that speaks to the conviviality and connection that comes from eating with loved ones.
Shortly after graduating from Niagara College’s culinary management program, Chef Andrew landed a job as a cook at Canoe, Oliver & Bonacini’s critically acclaimed Canadian restaurant in downtown Toronto. Chef Andrew spent three years working under Executive Chef Anthony Walsh, who taught him to cook at a level he had never experienced. During his time at Canoe, the restaurant was named “The Best Restaurant in the City” by Toronto Life magazine.
In 2009, Chef Andrew was promoted to Sous Chef at Jump, O&B’s high-energy Bay Street hub, where he expanded their fresh handmade pasta program. In 2011, he left Jump to open and operate a boutique catering company alongside his wife. Chef Andrew returned to O&B in 2015 as Executive Sous Chef at Canoe, and then moved on to help open and lead the kitchen at Leña Restaurante, O&B’s South American inspired dining destination.
When O&B launched Parcheggio in 2018, Chef Andrew returned to his Italian cooking roots, drawing inspiration from his own Nonna’s recipes to spotlight delicious, honest food. His leadership through opening and beyond has diners clammering for his thoughtful scratchmade Italian fare.
In 2020, Chef Andrew was appointed District Chef for Oliver & Bonacini Hospitality. In this role, he continues to oversee the culinary direction at Leña, Parcheggio, Beauty Eats, Village Loft, Jump, and has also take on oversight of The Joneses and Ceci Bar. His unmatched creativity, exceptional understanding of flavours, and dynamic leadership are instrumental in crafting some of the city’s most memorable dining experiences.
Please note that all available tables are listed on OpenTable. Please consider another time if you are unable to find your requested reservation. Thank you for your understanding!
Valid at 15+ Toronto restaurants. Treat a foodie in your life (or yourself!). Gift cards never expire. Buy now and dine in style in 2025! Discount available until Dec 3.
Tues–Thurs: 4–9pm
Fri & Sat: 4–10pm
Dec 23–26 & 29: Closed
Dec 31: 5pm–late
Jan 1,2,5,6 & 7: Closed
