Chef Mariangeli Alicea Saez, who co-owned the former Cantina La Martina in Kensington with her husband, two-time James Beard-nominated chef Dionisio Jimenez, guided children at the Viva Verano Spanish immersion camp through hands-on lessons blending food, culture, and history.
Her instruction went beyond cooking techniques, emphasizing the traditions and flavors of Latin America and the Caribbean.
Viva Verano camp organizers said the goal is to give children meaningful cultural experiences rooted in heritage.
"It's extremely important to share this cultural knowledge," said Alicea Saez.
She added that "Latino children that are first generation here might feel disconnected from their roots, and it's programs and opportunities like this that we have to connect them to their culture."
Viva Verano's mission is to bring kids together from all backgrounds to discover Spanish through hands-on activities, guided by bilingual educators.
The former Cantina La Martina, once a celebrated Kensington restaurant, earned acclaim for its culinary approach and community presence. She said she hopes to bring that same spirit to the camp's kitchen.
Food, she noted, can be a powerful connector. The day's lesson underscored that "food is a vehicle to unite people, and some of the most meaningful lessons can begin around the table."