Winter Wanderings: Exploring Flavor and Inspiration from Trinidad to Mexico

Winter Wanderings: Exploring Flavor and Inspiration from Trinidad to Mexico

As the winter off-season settled over Mendocino, I found myself with a rare gift—time to travel, reconnect, and seek fresh inspiration. My culinary journey this winter has been a beautiful blend of family, old friends, and vibrant new experiences, each stop offering its own flavors and stories.

Back to My Roots in Trinidad

My first stop was home. Returning to Trinidad is always a deeply nourishing experience—not just for my soul but for my palate. There’s nothing quite like the flavors of home. I found comfort in the warmth of my family’s kitchen, surrounded by the familiar scents of slow-simmering curries, fresh roti, and tropical fruits picked straight from the tree. I spent my days reconnecting with loved ones and my evenings exploring the local markets, where every corner burst with vibrant colors and bold spices. It was a beautiful reminder of where my love for food began.

Catching Up with Miami’s Magic

From the Caribbean warmth, I traveled to my old stomping grounds in Miami. Walking through Little Haiti and visiting Earth N' Us Farm felt like stepping back in time. I reconnected with friends and revisited spaces where Love and Vegetables pop-up dinners once brought the community together. The city’s evolving food scene continues to amaze me—there’s always something new and exciting brewing in Miami’s kitchens. It was a joy to catch up with old colleagues and experience the blend of cultures that make the city’s food so unique.

A Quick Bite of the Big Apple

I also managed a quick trip to New York City, passing through New Jersey to see family along the way. The energy of the city never ceases to inspire me. I wandered through markets, sampled dishes from bustling food halls, and even treated myself to a few iconic New York bites. There’s a certain magic in the way the city blends tradition with innovation—each meal felt like a small adventure.

Immersed in Mexico’s Rich Culinary Tapestry

Now, I find myself in Mexico City, and it’s everything I imagined and more. The city pulses with creativity, and its food is a beautiful reflection of its rich history and culture. I’ve spent my days wandering through local markets, sampling fresh tortillas, smoky moles, and vibrant salsas. Every meal is an education, and every bite tells a story.

I’m preparing to head to Oaxaca next, a region known for its legendary cuisine. I can’t wait to dive deeper into the flavors of this area, learn from local chefs, and bring back new ideas for my own cooking. I’m especially excited about exploring the markets, meeting the makers of traditional ingredients like mezcal and heirloom corn, and discovering the secrets of Oaxacan mole.

Bringing It All Back Home

This winter has been a whirlwind of flavors, friendships, and inspiration. Each destination has offered something special—from the comforting familiarity of Trinidad to the buzzing creativity of Mexico. I’m returning to Mendocino with a full heart, a head buzzing with new ideas, and a notebook brimming with recipes I can’t wait to share.

Cooking, to me, is an ever-evolving journey. It’s about honoring where I’ve been while always keeping an eye on what’s next. I’m so excited to bring these new flavors and fresh inspiration to the table this season.

Stay tuned for updates, new dishes, and maybe even a few special pop-up events as I infuse my menus with the vibrant flavors of my travels.

With love and a taste for adventure,
Chef Chantelle