With our Orlando food scene’s rich diversity, local Orlando chefs and restaurants share with us their stories and specials for celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month.
Hispanic Heritage Month, observed annually from September 15th to October 15th, celebrates the rich and diverse cultural contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans to the United States.
This month-long commemoration begins on September 15th to honor the anniversary of independence for several Latin American countries, including Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Mexico and Chile also celebrate their independence days on September 16th and September 18th, respectively.
It serves as a time to recognize the achievements, history, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino individuals and communities in areas such as arts, politics, sports, science, and more. Additionally, it provides an opportunity for fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the diverse cultures that make up the Hispanic and Latino community in the United States.
Waldorf Astoria Orlando and Signia Bonnet Creek by Hilton
This Hispanic Heritage Month the Waldorf Astoria and Signia by Hilton Bonnet Creek hotels are honored to celebrate their chefs and the flavors their cultures bring to the table across their menus.
Meet the Chefs:
— Chef Dannilo Zapatel Herrera, the Executive Sous Chef for Signia Orlando Bonnet Creek, developed his culinary passion at a young age. One of his standout creations at Harvest Bistro is the renowned Salmon Bowl, featuring a tantalizing Aji Panca Marinade that blends Peruvian flavors with locally sourced produce.
— Chef Juan Suarez, the Chef De Cuisine at Bull & Bear, has honed his culinary expertise since the age of two, when he began cooking with his grandmother. The new Bull & Bear menu (coming soon!) will feature the Carabineros Shrimp Seafood Paella, a tribute to his family heritage and cherished Sunday paella traditions with his father.
— Chef Alberto Navarrete Arias, the Chef De Cuisine at La Luce, grew up cooking alongside his mother. As the guiding light of the La Luce kitchen, he draws inspiration from his mother’s teachings. His mentorship and passion empower our resort chefs to embrace their culinary journey and create unforgettable experiences for every guest.
— Chef Jesus Pinto, the Restaurant Chef at Zeta Asia, fondly reflects on his childhood with Arepas being a standout food. Among the culinary team, it’s common knowledge that Chef Jesus has a deep love for the dish – and he often prepares them as the “family meal” for the kitchen team.
KAVAS TACOS + TEQUILA AT POINTE ORLANDO
Kavas Tacos + Tequila at Pointe Orlando is celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month by offering a special menu that will benefit Santiago & Friends | Family Center for Autism, a nonprofit by Latino Leadership that provides ABA therapy in a culturally- and linguistically-sensitive environment for Central Florida families.
From September 15 to October 15, Kavas Tacos is offering a special three-course menu for $40 per person, with $2 from each dinner sold being donated to Santiago & Friends.
Menu Details: The Hispanic Heritage Month Menu includes appetizers such as Chicken Flautas, Black Bean Empanadas, and Ceviche; entrees that range from Skirt Steak to Chicken Fajitas; and desserts including Churro Donut Sammies, and Cookies & Horchata. See the full menu here.
Why This Matters (Credit: AustinSpeaks.org):
- In 2023, the CDC reported that approximately 1 in 36 children in the U.S. is diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD), according to 2020 data
- Minority groups tend to be diagnosed later and less often
- Most insurance plans cover ABA therapy, without coverage, ABA therapy costs $62,400 to $249,600 per year, which is a burden all too heavy for many families
Where: Kavas Tacos + Tequila, 9101 International Drive Suite 1198, Orlando, FL 32819 at Pointe Orlando
When: September 15 – October 15 for the Hispanic Heritage Month menu, and October 4 for the Cena.
