Miguel Alvarez is the chef behind Quinta Brava's traditional Oaxacan cooking class — a passionate storyteller of Oaxacan cuisine with a relaxed, welcoming style that turns every session into a journey through the art of cooking and the culture behind it.

His Story

After years of traveling the world, Miguel came home to dig deeper into his roots and the ancient culinary practices of Oaxaca, inspired by his grandmother's cooking. He spent seasons exploring Oaxaca's villages and landscapes, learning the techniques, flavors, and traditions passed down through generations. His mission is simple: revive and honor authentic Oaxacan cuisine, prepared exactly as it's made in the villages.

In 2016, Miguel launched Eating Like in the Village, a project sharing the wisdom of ancient Oaxacan cooking methods using traditional wood-fired stoves. Its success led him to create The Real Oaxacan Cooking Experience in 2017 — an immersive, hands-on workshop where guests discover the magic of Oaxacan cuisine firsthand, expand their palate, and deepen their culinary knowledge.

Beyond the Kitchen

Miguel has a deep appreciation for learning from different cultures, trying new dishes, and discovering unexpected flavor combinations. His passion for traditional Oaxacan cooking is matched only by his love of the outdoors — he's a competitive swimmer, and you'll also find him mountain biking, surfing, and climbing whenever he gets the chance.

Easy-going and open-minded, Miguel firmly believes great food is best enjoyed with good company. Whether it's over a glass of mezcal, a coffee, a mate, or a cold beer, he looks forward to sharing memorable moments — and real Oaxacan flavors — with every guest.

Meet Chef Miguel Alvarez and discover the real flavors of Oaxac