About Chef Wilson Marinez
Born in New York to Dominican parents, my culinary journey began in the warm comfort of my childhood home.
My mother, my first and most influential teacher, patiently guided me through the fundamentals of Dominican cuisine, sharing family recipes and cooking techniques passed down through generations. Under her watchful eye, I learned not just how to combine ingredients, but how to infuse dishes with love and cultural heritage.
This early foundation inspired me to pursue cooking professionally in the city where I was born. My career took off when I started as a line cook in the bustling Marina in Dyckman, where I quickly demonstrated the natural talent nurtured by my mother and an unwavering work ethic that set me apart in the kitchen.
My commitment to excellence led to advancement as a prep cook, where I honed my skills in ingredient preparation and kitchen efficiency. These experiences prepared me for opportunities at some of New York's top catering companies, where I refined my techniques and expanded my culinary repertoire working alongside renowned chefs in the industry.
Through dedication and passion, I rose to the position of Catering Lead Chef, where my creative vision and leadership abilities truly shined. Working with prestigious New York catering companies allowed me to serve distinguished clients and execute high-profile events that demanded culinary precision and artistic presentation.
As my reputation grew, I seized opportunities to expand my culinary horizons across different regions of the United States, exploring the diverse culinary landscapes from the seafood traditions of New England to the bold flavors of the Southwest. Each new region provided fresh insights into American regional cooking that I eagerly incorporated into my evolving style. These experiences throughout America transformed my approach to food while deepening my appreciation for the country's rich culinary diversity.
I've become particularly known for my Dominican Fusion cuisine—an innovative culinary approach that celebrates my roots while embracing American regional influences. By reimagining traditional Dominican dishes with techniques and ingredients from across the United States, I create unique dining experiences that honor heritage while pushing creative boundaries. My signature Dominican Fusion style represents the perfect intersection of my family traditions, professional training, and exploration of America's diverse food cultures.
My cooking style marries the rich, bold flavors of my Dominican heritage—techniques and flavor profiles my mother instilled in me—with sophisticated influences gained from my journeys throughout America. Each dish tells a story—one of cultural pride, family tradition, American innovation, and a genuine love for creating memorable dining experiences.
As a Catering Lead Chef, I've developed expertise in menu development, event coordination, and delivering exceptional cuisine under pressure. My ability to lead kitchen teams while maintaining the highest standards of quality has earned me respect throughout the competitive culinary scene.
Today, I continue to push culinary boundaries through my Dominican Fusion creations while honoring the traditional flavors that my mother first taught me—the foundation that inspired my enduring passion for cooking and sharing my unique perspective with food enthusiasts across America.
