Mely

Mely Hernández de la Vega

Heritage: Colombian-Lebanese // Currently: Colorado Springs, CO

Short Rib Arepas

bone marrow and smoked short rib, garlic aioli, manchego

In the crucible of my cultural heritage lies a rich fusion of Colombian and Latin traditions, intertwined with the deep Lebanese roots of my grandmother. Raised in a home where the aroma of exotic spices and the taste of traditional dishes harmoniously melded, I witnessed how cooking became a sanctuary of identity and connection to my past.

The tales recounted by my grandmother about the nearly forgotten recipes of her homeland ignited within me a profound longing to preserve our culinary heritage. Inspired by this rich tradition, I ventured to blend the authentic flavors of Colombia with the enticing aromas of Lebanese cuisine, thus creating a unique recipe that celebrates our cultural diversity and honors our ancestors.

Every bite of this creation is a sensory journey that transports us through time, reminding us of the importance of preserving our roots and sharing the richness of our cultural heritage with the world. In each dish, the stories of past generations are woven, offering a tribute to the resilient essence of our cultural identity.