MEET THE CHEF: Franco Ruiz of Woodie Fisher in Denver, Colorado

WRITTEN BY 5 REASONS TO VISIT® EDITORIAL STAFF

PUBLISHED OCTOBER 2022 • 4 min read

5 Reasons to Visit® sat down with Executive Chef Franco Ruiz of Woodie Fisher at the Hilton Garden Inn Union Station in Denver, Colorado.

Executive Chef Franco Ruiz of Woodie Fisher at the Hilton Garden Inn Union Station in Denver, Colorado

Where did you grow up, and where have you traveled to that has helped inspire and shape your cooking philosophy? 

I grew up in San Diego California. Spent time cooking in Hawaii, Puerto Rico and most notable, San Sebastian, Spain for a year. All have shaped my cooking philosophy, from cooking with my grandmother, to working for my father in San Diego as a young cook. And spending time cooking in Europe around incredible talent.

Woodie Fisher at the Hilton Garden Inn Union Station in Denver, Colorado

Tell our readers an interesting fact or two about yourself.

I like subtle spice and citrus. I enjoy adding it to food as much as I can. I grew up cooking in Southern California, cooking with fresh ingredients is important to me.

Tell us about your absolute favorite food and why readers should try it if they haven’t already.

Sopes! My favorite thing to eat growing up. Fluffy corn shell, thicker than a tortilla. Topped with anything you want. My favorite is topped with shredded beef, beans, crema, avocado, salsa, lettuce, and a good Mexican cheese.

Woodie Fisher at the Hilton Garden Inn Union Station in Denver, Colorado

What are three ingredients that you simply couldn’t live without? 

Citrus, a good olive oil and hot sauce (spice). You can make so many great combinations with those ingredients, either together or separately. They go a long way to add great flavor and depth to food.

We love the art behind plating. What do you love about designing the perfect dish?

You eat with your eyes first. You put a lot of effort into the preparation of food. There’s no better feeling than putting it all together and have the visual appeal be as good as the taste.

Woodie Fisher at the Hilton Garden Inn Union Station in Denver, Colorado

Tell us about one of the most creative dishes you’ve created?

I made a Ham & Pea soup. The soup was a clarified ham hock broth. The ham hock was turned into a “ham cheese” similar to head cheese. Served with split peas pickled carrots and bacon migas.

Woodie Fisher at the Hilton Garden Inn Union Station in Denver, Colorado

What is one of your greatest accomplishments and/or recent awards you've earned?

I made FSR magazine’s list of 32 food professionals in the country on the rise.

What are some of the latest trends you’re seeing in top restaurants across the globe?

More approachability with food.

Woodie Fisher at the Hilton Garden Inn Union Station in Denver, Colorado

What’s your favorite cocktail or beverage of choice?

Mezcal. With some spice and lots of lime.

What do you love about being the Executive Chef of Woodie Fisher at the Hilton Garden Inn Union Station in Denver, Colorado?

Working side by side with my crew and having creative freedom.

Woodie Fisher at the Hilton Garden Inn Union Station in Denver, Colorado