Chef Ruiz
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, beating the nearly unstoppable Bobby Flay. Chef Ruiz brings decades of experience in the Santa Fe region to Escondido, his first signature restaurant that opened august 2024.
Chef Fernando Ruiz holds the prestigious title of having “beaten Bobby Flay,” a recognition he earned on the renowned Food Network show Beat Bobby Flay. In a thrilling culinary showdown, Ruiz secured victory with his remarkable chiles en nogada dish. A humble chef at heart, Ruiz credits much of his success to his wife, Michelle Romero, who continues to inspire and push him to reach new heights. “It’s true what they say,” Ruiz reflects, “behind every great man is an even greater woman.”
Ruiz is no stranger to the Food Network, having first gained national recognition by winning Guy’s Grocery Games. A year later, with Michelle’s unwavering support, he returned to the network for another competition, this time on Chopped, where he once again emerged victorious.
Born in Phoenix, Arizona, Ruiz spent his childhood between the city and his family’s ranch in Mexico. However, his early years were marked by challenges—at 13, he became involved in gang activity, which led to arrests for weapons and drug possession. After spending his 20th and 21st birthdays behind bars, Ruiz earned his G.E.D. while incarcerated. Upon release, he pursued a different path, enrolling in culinary school and graduating in 1999.
After working in Vail, Colorado, for four years, Ruiz relocated to New Mexico 18 years ago, where he met the love of his life, Michelle. Within just two days of meeting, they moved in together, and it was Michelle who reignited Fernando’s passion for cooking, encouraging him to return to the kitchen and pursue his culinary dreams once more.