MEET THE CHEF: Miguel Gonzalez of Castanyoles at Four Seasons Hotel Casa Medina Bogotá in Bogotá, Colombia
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5 Reasons to Visit® sat down with Executive Chef Miguel Gonzalez of Castanyoles at Four Seasons Hotel Casa Medina Bogotá in Bogotá, Colombia. Enjoy this stylish Spanish bar and restaurant, with a greenhouse atrium perfect for glamorous romantic evenings or a quick bite with a signature cocktail.
Castanyoles at Four Seasons Hotel Casa Medina Bogotá in Bogotá, Colombia
Where did you grow up, and where have you traveled to that has helped inspire and shape your cooking philosophy?
I’m from Bogotá or “Rolo” as they call us here in Colombia. For me, every destination provides a new knowledge under the basis that gastronomy is the intangible culture of a place.
Castanyoles at Four Seasons Hotel Casa Medina Bogotá in Bogotá, Colombia
Tell our readers an interesting fact or two about yourself that reflects your cooking style?
I left the kitchen for a year because I wanted to learn coaching to implement those techniques in the kitchen to have a more human approach in the kitchen.
Tell us about your absolute favorite food and why readers should try it if they haven’t already.
I like the flavors of Colombia such as the Pacific Ceviche or the traditional soup in Bogota the Ajiaco Santafereño. People should try them because they are traditional flavors of two different regions that we have in my country.
Castanyoles at Four Seasons Hotel Casa Medina Bogotá in Bogotá, Colombia
What are three ingredients that you simply couldn’t live without?
I cannot live without garlic, spring onions and guasca—because they are the core for my kitchen.
We love the art behind plating. What do you love about designing the perfect dish?
I love the harmony of flavors, colors and textures that are needed to have the synchrony of the perfect dish.
Castanyoles at Four Seasons Hotel Casa Medina Bogotá in Bogotá, Colombia
Tell us about one of the most creative dishes you’ve created?
My favorite dish is the baby pork with lentil texture.
What is one of your greatest accomplishments or awards you've earned?
I was chosen as “Manager of the Term,” but more me, it was more significant when one of my cooks won the contest as the “Best Young Chef of Colombia” according to La Chainne Rotisserie.
Castanyoles at Four Seasons Hotel Casa Medina Bogotá in Bogotá, Colombia
What are some of the latest trends you’re seeing in top restaurants across the globe?
I see that the restaurants are implementing a lot food waste control procedures and sustainability.
What’s your favorite cocktail or beverage of choice?
My favorite cocktail is the Moscow Mule because it has different flavors, but I also like locals such as the Viche (a traditional drink of Colombia).
Castanyoles at Four Seasons Hotel Casa Medina Bogotá in Bogotá, Colombia
What do you love about being the Executive Chef of Castanyoles at Four Seasons Hotel Casa Medina Bogotá in Bogotá, Colombia?
Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts is the company that thinks of the employee and helps their growth in both their personal and professional life.
Castanyoles at Four Seasons Hotel Casa Medina Bogotá in Bogotá, Colombia
Note: This information was accurate when this article was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
