Get to Know Chef Rito Castaneda of Evvia Estiatorio

MILPITAS, Calif. - May 3, 2013 - PRLog -- Castaneda started working at Evvia in 1995. He struck an agreement with one of the grill cooks, he would teach him Spanish in exchange for English lessons. It was this cook who inspired Castaneda to pursue a career as a chef after asking him the simple question, “Do you want to stay a dishwasher forever?”  

From that point on he started working his way up. He moved on to prep and was then given the opportunity to step into the role of Pastry chef. Castaneda rose to the challenge and showcased his talents. From there he moved on to Sous Chef in 2000 and then Chef de Cuisine in 2004.

Castaneda’s most important mentor is former Evvia Executive Chef and current Executive Chef at Martins West in Redwood City, Michael Dotson. Starting in 2001, Dotson was with Evvia for 4 years and it was during this time Castaneda came into his own.

Frequently Castaneda and Dotson would be cooking from 5am to 7pm or longer. Even now, Castaneda has a smile on his face when talking those long days. He explained, “The most important thing is that we were always having fun.” Although, he did remark that during some of those late nights and early morning shifts, the quarks of the restaurant would reveal themselves. Whether it was real or just tired eyes, many employees have sworn they have seen ghosts in the dining room and doors acting on their own.

Wanting to be a mentor himself, Castaneda has learned how to work with people, how to balance different personalities in the kitchen.  Starting on the first day a new hire begins, Castaneda talks with them, asks them about their goals and from then on the “line is set.” When observing his interactions with his coworkers, you can see the respect that has been imparted between everyone.

Castaneda not only learned important culinary skills from Dotson, but embraced a mentality about cooking. “Cook like you would for someone you love.” Castaneda explained this was advice Dotson gave him, and something he has followed ever since.

Castaneda truly embraces cooking food that people want to eat. This philosophy is evident in his response to the questions, “What would you make for your dream dinner guest?” This person is former Dodger Pitcher, Fernando Valenzuela.  Castaneda has a straightforward approach, “If he likes steak, I will cook him one the way he likes it”.

While Castaneda may have been born in Mexico, he has fully embraced Greek cuisine. His go to comfort meal is Evvia’s amazing wood fire grilled chicken with Greek salad. Although it is simple, it is perfectly done and what he loves.

Chef Rito Castaneda has an inspiring story, yet it is not his story that is most impressive, but rather his professionalism and skill. He is not only someone you want to cook for you, but someone you want to befriend.

Chef Rito Castaneda has been working with food service distributor, Daylight Foods of Milpitas, CA, for over a year at Evvia Estiatorio.

Photos:
https://www.prlog.org/12131059/1
https://www.prlog.org/12131059/2