Adore April 2022

A na, raised in Mexico City, grew up cooking with her paternal grandmother who played a crucial role in her culinary development. Not only did this experience awaken her curiosity about the sourcing and preparation of food, but she learned that a meal, however simple, can bring a family together and cure whatever ails the soul. Cooking has taken Ana to celebrated restaurants in New York, India, Europe, and finally to New Orleans where she worked at Coquette before opening Lengua Madre. With reimagined dishes rooted in traditional Mexican recipes passed down through generations, she shares both her culture and passion for hospitality that is unrivaled. WHY NEW ORLEANS? I came here to take a break from NYC, figure out my next move, and spend time with my sister, only to realize I could never live apart from her. I was also lucky to fall in love with someone here.

WHAT IS INSPIRING YOU RIGHT NOW? The opportunity that Lengua Madre has given me to reconnect with my Mexican heritage and reminisce on family anecdotes — most of them revolve around the table. WHAT DO YOU DO TO NURTURE CREATIVITY? Travel when I can, talk to people, surround myself with nature, and call my grandmother. FAVORITE PART ABOUT WHAT YOU DO? The opportunities it provides to share my culture, my story, as well as the friendships and relationships I have built with colleagues and like minded folx. FAVORITE QUOTE? A popular Mexican saying: "Una raya más al tigre" which translates to "To a tiger, what's one more stripe?" BIGGEST INSPIRATION IN YOUR WORK? Architecture, fashion, and nature.

ADORE • APRIL 2022

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