On The Pass 136. José Luis Hinostroza: Calm, Fire and Belonging
In this episode of On The Pass, with José Luis Hinostroza, the chef behind ARCA, a jungle-rooted restaurant shaped by fire, place, and pre-colonial Mesoamerican tradition.
José Luis' journey spans some of the world's most influential kitchens — Alinea, El Celler de Can Roca, and Noma — where he later joined the R&D team for Noma Mexico. But rather than chasing prestige, he chose presence, calm, and connection, ultimately building a life and community in Tulum.
Recorded just after a powerful collaboration dinner celebrating 10 years of ARCA, with chefs flying in from across Mexico, this conversation goes far beyond the plate.
We explore:
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Finding calm in Tulum after years of anxiety
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Reconnecting with Mexican identity through indigenous ingredients
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Letting go of ego and leading with humility
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Mentorship, team-building, and protecting creative vision
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Why ARCA rejects the "fine dining" label
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Community, responsibility, and the future of Mexican cuisine
This episode is about more than food. It's about leadership, legacy, and choosing a life aligned with your values.
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