About Us

Fresh | Quality | Healthy | Dynamic

Escondido is the debut restaurant from Chef Fernando Ruiz, a three-time Food Network Champion (Beat Bobby Flay, Guy’s Grocery Games, Chopped), which opened in August of 2024.

Escondido brings together the bold, authentic flavors of Coastal, Central, and Northern Mexico in every bite. Indulge in our vibrant ceviches made from sushi-grade fish, savor the perfectly grilled mahi mahi, and fish tacos—all inspired by the Pacific Coast’s culinary heritage. From Northern New Mexico ranches, we bring you the deeply flavorful and tender Short Ribs, Barbacoa, Al Pastor, and Carne Asada. And don’t miss our signature veal-stuffed Chiles En Nogada, a traditional Central Mexican dish that Chef Ruiz used to triumph over Bobby Flay in 2018.

At Escondido, we’re proud to offer flavorful and inventive dishes for our vegan and vegetarian guests. Our Mole is made entirely vegan, Ingredients like olive oil and vegetable stock give our mole a modern twist while still remaining true to its roots. Craving enchiladas? We can craft a delicious vegan version with Poblano Rajas, mushrooms, corn, calabacitas, and Mole Negro, topped with sesame seeds. Whether you’re looking for plant-based, keto, or gluten-free options, we’ve got something exciting for everyone.

Our cocktails are crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients and bold, unique flavors. From the fiery Pina En Fuego with tequila reposado and habanero syrup to the refreshing Pepino Picante with mezcal blanco and cucumber juice, our menu offers a drink for every mood. Enjoy classics like the Silver Coin Margarita or explore inventive options like the Cafe Con Sotol, made with Hacienda de Chihuahua Crema de Sotol. Whatever your choice, each cocktail is carefully balanced to elevate your dining experience.

Find us at the corner of Corazon and Agua Fria at El Camino Crossing. We also offer catering for private functions, parties, and intimate gatherings. Let Escondido bring the flavors of Mexico to your next event.

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Chef Fernando Ruiz is a king of Southwestern and Mexican cuisine, holding the distinction of being a three-time Food Network Champion. Ruiz won Guy’s Grocery Games, Chopped and most recently, beat the nearly unstoppable Bobby Flay. Chef Ruiz brings decades of experience in the Santa Fe region to Escondido, his first signature restaurant, opened in 2024.


Chef Fernando Ruiz now holds the distinction of “beating Bobby Flay.”  Ruiz recently competed against the legendary chef on the popular Food Network show BEAT BOBBY FLAY and, to the delight of culinary fans everywhere, took home the top honor with his chiles en nogada dish.  The New Mexico-based chef gives all the credit to his wife, Michelle Romero, who encourages him and pushes him to be his very best every day.  Ruiz says of his wife, “It is true that behind every great man is an even greater woman.”    

No stranger to the Food Network, Ruiz first gained notoriety by winning the competition show GUYS GROCERY GAMES.  A year later, with more support and encouragement from his amazing wife, he returned to the popular cable network to compete on yet another show, CHOPPED.  Once again, he did not disappoint by winning this contest too.   

Ruiz was born in Phoenix, Arizona. His early years were spent in Phoenix and on the family ranch in Mexico.  At 13, he started running with a gang, trafficking weapons and drugs. At the age of 16 he got his first taste of “reality” when he was arrested for possession of weapons and drugs.  At eighteen, he got “busted” again. Ruiz spent his 20th and 21st birthdays in jail. It was while incarcerated that he earned his G.E.D.  Upon release, he went straight into culinary school, graduating in 1999. 

Fernando worked in Vail, Colorado, for four years before moving to New Mexico 18 years ago. In New Mexico, Fernando met the love of his life, Romero. They moved in together after knowing each other for only two days. Fernando had given up on cooking, but Romero, seeing something in him that others did not, encouraged him to return to the culinary arts.  

Instagram- @chef_fernandoruiz77