Today we’d like to introduce you to Bigler Cruz
Hi Bigler, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
In 2006 I left El Salvador seeking a better life in Washington DC. Captivated by the artistry of sushi at a local restaurant, I started as a sushi chef, fell in love with the culture and cuisine and that passion also made me want to extend my knowledge and decided to move to Austin to work at Uchi after having our first born, got the job at Uchi, became the head chef spent 5 plus years with them and started Destino omakase in Houston where we had a super successful year and half but made the decision to move back to Austin to be around family and now also working at Otoko as a lead sushi chef as I am trying to build my small business in this beautiful city.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Coming to this country undocumented was definitely the biggest, but was young and determined to work hard for the future I always dreamed of, language was a big challenge as well since I knew zero English when moved to the States, being a Latino making sushi has probably been another one, having a good work family time is always hard since being a chef requires long hours, also going through the process of becoming a US citizen.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I offer Private sushi Omakase dinners, providing a personalized culinary experience for my guest, I specialize in Japanese cuisine, focusing on traditional techniques while incorporating innovative elements. I’m known for my creativity and unique blend of Japanese and Spanish/Latin flavors, which brings a fresh perspective to sushi. most proud of my beautiful family and how they supported and inspire me to pursue my passion and achieve success. i think what sets me apart is not just my amazing combination of Japanese and Spanish/ Latin flavors but also the unique story I share through my food, connecting my heritage and culinary journey with every dish I create.
What were you like growing up?
Grew up in a poor household very quite and dedicated to school but loved drawing and painting, on my “free time” my grandpa thought me how to farm, lots of grains and vegetables. Foraging fruits was fun and also provide to the family. My first memories are being at the rivers fishing and crab hunting, for sure that’s when I fell in love with fish.
when farming season was over in between school also developed the love for soccer and ended up playing professional before moving to the states. still love to read food related books.
Pricing:
- $175 per person
- $200 per person
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.destinoculinary.com
- Instagram: @destinoomakase
Image Credits
Destino Omakase
