Mixtli Part 3: Culture + Creative

The Culinary Symphony Behind San Antonio's Most Innovative Kitchen

In the world of gastronomy, where culinary boundaries are constantly being redefined, the story of Mixtli stands out as a beacon of innovation and tradition. This renowned restaurant, spearheaded by two visionary head chefs, Rico Torres and Diego Galicia, has captured the essence of Mexican cuisine, presenting it in ways that honor its rich history while pushing the envelope of contemporary culinary art.

The chefs behind Mixtli believe in the power of collaboration. “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together,” they emphasize. This philosophy is the backbone of their partnership, propelling them forward in their culinary journey. That collaboration would not be possible without the energy of the team that follows them. In previous parts, we talked about the founders, the drink specialists, but what about the kitchen backbone?

Alexana Cabrera, Nico Garza, and Shelby Mitchell are the hands behind the food, the minds behind the research. Alexana, a chef with a deep connection to her roots, channels her cultural heritage into every dish she crafts. Her passion for authenticity and her commitment to preserving traditional Mexican flavors make her an invaluable asset to the Mixtli team. She’s not just creating dishes; she’s telling stories through her food, stories that resonate with the rich and diverse history of Mexico.

Nico Garza, on the other hand, brings a dynamic energy to the kitchen with his innovative approach. He constantly seeks to challenge the status quo, experimenting with ingredients and techniques to create something entirely new. Nico’s fearlessness in the kitchen is what keeps Mixtli on the cutting edge of contemporary cuisine, blending the old with the new in ways that surprise and delight.

Then there’s Shelby Mitchell, whose meticulous attention to detail ensures that every pastry dish not only tastes exquisite but looks like a work of art. Shelby’s background at restaurant Bliss shines through in her plating, where each element is thoughtfully placed to create a visually stunning masterpiece. Her ability to balance aesthetics with flavor is a testament to her talent and dedication to the craft.

Together, Alexana, Nico, and Shelby form the backbone of Mixtli’s kitchen. Their combined efforts, along with the visionary leadership of Torres and Galicia, create a symphony of flavors, textures, and stories that continue to redefine what Mexican cuisine can be. It’s this harmony of tradition, innovation, and collaboration that makes Mixtli not just a restaurant, but a culinary experience that transcends borders and time.