Chef Urvin Croes: From Rebellious Youth to Culinary Maestro & Running Aruba's Most expensive Restaurant | EP 148

Send us your Questions Ever wondered how a rebellious youth with dreams of becoming a philosopher transforms into a renowned chef? Join us as we chat with Chef Irving Cruz, who shares his captivating journey from music and skating to the elite kitchens of Europe and Japan. Chef Cruz humorously addresses the filling nature of small portions at his restaurant Infini, shedding light on the meticulous artistry that goes into each dish. We also get a behind-the-scenes look at his current projects, including his upcoming book on Caribbean cuisine and his family's business and political background.In a moving tale of personal transformation, Chef Cruz recounts his childhood fascination with psychology and philosophy, which took a dramatic detour during his rebellious teenage years. A pivotal intervention by his parents led him to a culinary program, where he discovered an unexpected passion for cooking. Guided by a mentor from the Culinary Institute of America, Chef Cruz embarked on a structured apprenticeship that laid the foundation for his illustrious career. From navigating the rigorous kitchens of Holland to gaining invaluable experiences with Michelin-star chefs, his story is one of perseverance, adaptation, and relentless pursuit of culinary excellence.Tune in to hear about Chef Cruz's emotional journey back to Aruba, where he faced challenges of overqualification and skepticism about his Michelin star experience. Despite these setbacks, his respect for the culinary industry and his resilience shine through. Chef Cruz also opens up about his battle with blindness after a brutal attack and how he continued to cook despite this adversity. We explore the innovative culinary creations at Infini, his collaborative book project with Chef Jason Howard, and the unique dining experience at Infini. This episode is a testament to Chef Cruz's determination, creativity, and the belief that everything happens for a reason.SUBSCRIBE TO OUR CHANNEL:    / @nofilterinparadise  INSTAGRAM | https://www.instagram.com/nofilterinp...