Chef Fermin Ortega acquired his love for cooking as a child in Mexico City where he grew up preparing family meals with his parents.  After moving to New York City in 1999, he cooked in various kitchens including Serafina Lafayette, La Flor Bakery and El Almacen.  He finally landed at Toalache where he honed his Mexican culinary skills before joining the team at Mañana. Chef Ortega incorporates French and Italian influences into traditional Mexican cuisine.  His favorite dishes to cook are tostadas, tortas, quesadillas and guacamole.