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She connects with herself through her cooking, and this is what allows her to make so many other people happy. And that’s the best reward a cook could ask for, according to Martha Palacios, the chef at Panchita until late 2021 who is now spearheading a new concept for Acurio Restaurantes in Miami.

Martha Palacios is a woman who transforms dreams into goals. When she reaches those goals, she says, “This doesn’t end here. How can I go above and beyond?” With her curiosity, perseverance, and, especially, her cheery disposition, Martha has made a true fiesta of Criollo cuisine.

The chef at Panchita (from 2008 until late 2021) says that cooking is the perfect place to bring joy to others, and that’s what life is all about. “Making so many people happy in a single act is wonderful,” she says from Miami, where she is now involved in an ambitious project for Acurio Restaurantes.

Born in the town of Casapalca, Martha Palacios says she has no secrets in the kitchen. If there is anything she always makes sure to have on hand, it’s her smile and the enthusiasm with which she brings the best out of any situation. “Being happy with yourself is the secret to everything,” says Martha, who defines herself as a good eater enamored of Criollo cuisine: its stews, escabeches, soups, tamales, chicharrones, and more.

At Panchita, Martha enchanted us with classic Criollo dishes like arroz con pato, sopa criolla, patita con maní, and other marvels. Professionally, she is at the top of her game. As part of her career path at Acurio Restaurantes, she is now spearheading a new concept in Miami. She is excited to bring Peruvian food to those outside our borders, and ready to tackle the task with relish. Martha continues to learn and teach, just as she did at Panchita in Lima, where she advised her staff on the best techniques to achieve truly sublime, unforgettable dishes that had diners returning time and time again.

Martha made Panchita into the home of Criollo food. Indeed, she was so closely identified with the restaurant that many called her Panchita, not Martha. This chef with the broad, easy smile says her greatest dream is for her son to be free-spirited and always smiling, just like her.