Mexican chef Patricia Quintana passes away

After more than five decades promoting traditional Mexican cuisine around the world, the renowned Mexican chef Patricia Quintana has passed away on November 26, at the age of 72.

With more than 25 books published and innumerable awards , Patricia was a diligent ambassador of Mexico’s flavors. She is known for writing “Taste of Mexico,” which was a bestseller in the United States .

Her training as chef allowed her to work with several world-known chefs from the Nouvelle Cuisine , such as Paul Bocuse, Michel Guérard, and Alain Chapel .

Her restaurant Izote in Polanco, Mexico City , which opened in 2001 and closed in 2013, was one of the first places to serve Mexican cuisine in a gourmet setting.

“Ever since I was a child, I was always learning, trying new flavors, feeling, and living the kitchen. I loved to play with little bowls and pans that I was given by my grandmothers. I was fascinated in learning how to make tortillas in rural homes, with ranch workers,” she said.

A tireless researcher, she learned from the best cooks in Europe, as well as from traditional cooks in Mexico.

“I am fond of many culinary traditions, but I am completely infatuated and fascinated by Mexican cuisine. We have a broad range of possibilities to experiment with. It is ancestral, vibrant, and representative of our past."

For the time being, the chef’s family has not yet revealed the cause of her death.

Some of Mexico's most famous chefs gave their condolences through social media. Enrique Olvera stated: "Thank you for being so generous with your knowledge and for opening so many doors for Mexican cuisine," while Chef Monica Patiño wrote: "I now say goodbye to a great friend and colleague. Patricia Quintana was a warrior and she promoted our cultural and culinary heritage. She believed in and loved every single thing she undertook. In an impeccable manner and with great creativity, she opened a lot of doors and overcame barriers to awaken our sense of pride in our great culture. She was an inspiration for thousands!"

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