About Chef Hugo Martinez
With 24 years of culinary experience and a decade-long tenure at Fleming’s, Chef Hugo has built his career from the ground up as a self-taught chef driven by pure passion. Inspired as a young boy watching his mother cook, Hugo found joy in the art of creating food that brings people together. His journey has been defined by hands-on learning, a relentless work ethic, and a commitment to crafting high-quality cuisine from cultures across the world. Chef Hugo’s culinary style is bold yet thoughtful, with a focus on flavor-forward creations like his signature Aguachile, where the natural acidity of lime juice gently cures fresh seafood to produce a dish that is both bright and deeply satisfying. As a Chef Partner, he leads his team with humility, unity, and hard work—values that shape both the back-of-house culture and the Guest experience. He thrives on encouraging diners to explore unfamiliar dishes and prides himself on a "whatever it takes" mindset to ensure a memorable visit. Outside of the kitchen, Hugo enjoys building and fixing things—skills that mirror his problem-solving spirit in the culinary world. Through the Chef’s Signature Series, he continues to push boundaries while honoring the classic steakhouse experience, never losing sight of the passion that started it all.
