Cantina la Martina

Chef Dionicio emigrated to the United States in 1998 in search of a better life. From Mexico City to California to Philly, he walked thousands of miles, slept in deserts, endured days and nights with no sleep, and fearlessly swam across a river chilled by November weather. Finally Chef made it to Philly to live with his brother, create a home here. Fifteen years after crossing the border, Chef became a US citizen.

Chef’s culinary journey started at 14 working in a restaurant in his hometown. After coming to the US, he learned the ropes of a kitchen – dishwasher, line cook, prep cook, chef, and Executive Chef. Throughout his journey, Chef has brought his heritage to his Philly home – fusing new flavors and cuisines, keeping his family traditions alive, and sharing his Mexican cuisine and culture with the Philly community.