Stories written by Martin Mendiola

The heritage of Cuban crafters

Hand-rolled cigars

By Martin Mendiola.... Whenever we want to hear an interesting and inspiring story, we try to find an artisan.  They are much simpler than artists are and their stories are much better.  Give me a good wine, cheese or cigar maker any time over a painter, even a musician for that matter. It is not [...]

A Great Weekend for FIU students

FIU STUDENTS assisting CENTERPLATE

By Martin Mendiola.... Wow, what a great weekend! With Bobby, Rachel, Anne and Giada in town, there was excitement everywhere you went. Fans full of energy and enthusiasm flocked to the streets hoping to catch a glimpse of their favorite celebrity chefs. Everyone had his or her own expectations as to what would happen when [...]