From dishwasher to world-famous chef: Maria Marte’s rise to the top

Americas Now

In 2003, a 27-year-old woman from the Dominican Republic moved to Madrid, in search of a better future. She wanted to cook and Spain, she thought, was her culinary Mecca.

The young cook went to one of Spain’s most prestigious restaurants but because she had no formal training, the only job she could get was washing dishes.

Now, less than ten years later, she is its award-winning chef.

Check out images of Chef Maria Marte, the culinary star whose hard work and talent has made her shine bright.

Culinary Star

In 2003, a 27-year-old woman from the Dominican Republic moved to Madrid, in search of a better future. She wanted to cook and Spain, she thought, was her culinary Mecca. The young cook went to one of Spain’s most prestigious restaurants but because she had no formal training, the only job she could get was washing dishes. Now, less than ten years later, she is its award-winning chef. Check out images of Chef Maria Marte, the culinary star whose hard work and talent has made her shine bright.