It’s obvious we love to travel. But we also LOVE a good bite to eat. The two seem to go pretty hand-in-hand, whether it’s finding the most authentic places to eat in other countries or appreciating how travel and culture have inspired what’s on our plate. We wanted a chef’s opinion on the matter, specifically a chef who has been influenced by travel herself. We talked with Claudette Zepeda, Executive Chef of Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas. Currently based in San Diego, Chef Zepeda is known for her bold approach to regional Mexican cuisine and credits a lot of her culinary style to her experiences growing up between the US and Mexico. Check out her thoughts on travel, authentic experiences and how seeing the world influences her own identity.
What recommendations do you have for travelers looking to find authentic cultural experiences?
Don’t shy away from asking chefs their favorite places to eat in the cities you will visit. Ask the staff at the hotel where they love to eat and go where there aren’t tourist traps.
How has travel influenced your own identity and inspired the cuisine that you create?
It has helped build the narrative that we are all the same when it comes to food, we want comfort 99.9% of the time. I have seen the exact same dish in three different countries called by a different name. It gives me an opportunity to tell the story of human and cuisine history through ingredients.
In your opinion, what is the most valuable way in which travel influences the culinary field?
It takes you out of the grind, the day-to-day chaos that a restaurant is. Your senses are reawakened, not thinking if someone called in sick or if the order got placed on time. All you can do or rather, should do, is take in every smell, color, face and become a curious human. You will discover ingredients you have never eaten before or after trying it, you are reminded and transported back to a time and place in your life where you tasted something similar and awaken the creative flow that can stagnate inside 4 walls.
Are there specific places in the Mexican communities where you grew up that you would recommend travelers look to experience the food and culture in the most authentic way?
Not specifically, I feel that every time I go to Tijuana or Guadalajara I see something new. If you see a lot of Americans where you are eating, I guarantee you are not having the same experiences that get my creative flow going.
What do you think is the most valuable takeaway that one can gain from travel?
Perspective, you see the two extremes of wealth and poverty in traveling, the only ones who look miserable are the wealthy.
What do you think is the most valuable way in which dining and travel intersect?
On your plate… ingredients from across the globe are in a dish working together to give you a sensory experience.
What advice can you offer with regards to being responsible and open-minded travelers?
Always be aware of your surroundings, and try to live like the locals. Do not travel with anything valuable, whether you are in Spokane or Santiago, Nayarit. Lastly, smile and make friends with the people.
Thanks Chef Zepeda for sharing your thoughts on our two favorite things: travel and food.
