Victor Parra Gonzalez
Chef
Buffalo, NY
About Victor Parra Gonzalez
Victor Parra Gonzalez, originally from Acapulco, Mexico, left home at 17 to pursue culinary training in Montreal, focusing on classical French techniques. His journey took an unexpected turn when he moved to Buffalo to support his mother, Olivia, through her cancer treatment. This move led him to embrace his Mexican heritage in cooking, earning him two James Beard Award nominations for Best Chef Northeast.
In Buffalo, Parra Gonzalez started with pop-up dinners before opening Las Puertas in 2018. Despite initial challenges, including a modest kitchen setup, he created a unique dining experience where the kitchen staff also served guests, fostering a personal connection. His dedication to Mexican cuisine and innovative approach have made Las Puertas a celebrated restaurant, attracting national media attention and loyal diners who appreciate his culinary journey through Mexico.