A Master of Creativity: Lucho Martínez
This week we meet Lucho Martínez, the chef & creative director behind Michelin-starred restaurant, Em (named for his daughter, Emilia) in Cuauhtémoc, Mexico City. An intimate space, Lucho’s stamp is everywhere - from the upstairs bar, 686 to a menu that draws from Mexico's traditions, Japan's ingredients and Europe's fine-dining history. Having first stepped into the kitchen at age 14, Lucho has evidently never looked back. We chatted about his various projects, the pursuit of creativity, and his favourite neighbourhood haunts.
On the inception of Em…
Em is a very personal space where I showcase my vision of Mexico and how I want the world to see it. I believe Mexico is world-class in many ways, and we strive to reflect this in the experience we offer at the restaurant.
On the atmosphere...
We want to make you feel at home, as Mexican culture always does. I personally select the music each month and carefully set the lighting at each table to enhance your focus on your food. It's a vibrant and energetic restaurant experience.
On the menu...
Since we opened, we've offered both à la carte and tasting menus focused on seasonal ingredients sourced from our small, high-quality providers. Everything that comes out of our kitchen draws inspiration from Mexico, whether it's an ingredient, a city, or a reinterpretation of a traditional sauce or dish. We also experiment with colors to enhance the dining experience. Recently, we've been highlighting Veracruz, my home state, known for its very diverse kitchenwise culinary traditions.
Everything that comes out of our kitchen draws inspiration from Mexico, whether it's an ingredient, a city, or a reinterpretation of a traditional sauce or dish.
On Lucho's early start…
I started working at the age of 14, and honestly, I found a safe place in the kitchen and among the people there. It made me feel like I was part of something, and by the time I was 17, I decided to pursue it professionally.
I started working at the age of 14, and honestly, I found a safe place in the kitchen and among the people there.
On what's next…
I'm super excited about the upcoming collaborations. I'm very proud of Em's Michelin star, and my team is what makes me most proud. Additionally, my media company is an exciting project for the future as we work on editorial and filmmaking. Each of my projects fills me with pride in its own unique way.
On signature dishes…
I avoid identifying or believing I have a signature dish because I believe it could limit my creativity. Instead, I simply enjoy the process of creation.
On ingredients…
At the moment, I'm feeling inspired by vanilla, coffee, mamey, and coconut.
Lucho's kitchen non-negotiables…
A pretty knife, a good quality copper pan and a molcajete.
On time outside of the kitchen…
In the city, I enjoy visiting Librería Vasconcelos and Anahuacalli, often by myself. I start my day with breakfast at Fonda Margarita, have lunch at Makan, and for dinner or special occasions, we always choose Máximo.
Outside the city, I love spending time at my country house in Veracruz, walking around banana plantations, and breakfasts at Maison Couturier.
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