I started cooking with my mother at a very young age. I was curious and loved to watch her cook, and she was happy to pass on her culinary skills. My father encouraged me to become a professional cook. In school I studied the basics of Spanish and international cuisines, and managing a restaurant.
I've been here for three and a half years and I think Hong Kong lives up to its reputation as a food paradise. My comfort food is still Spanish - it doesn't matter whether it's traditional or modern.
When I go out to eat my first priority is the authenticity of the food followed by the environment. The taste of the food is more important than presentation. Other aspects of the restaurant, like decor, are minor details to me.
I go to (84 Nga Tsin Wai Road, Kowloon City, tel: 2716 2938) for real Thai food. My favourites are crispy catfish salad and pork larb. I like the clever mix of spices with fresh herbs and fruit. It tastes exactly like the version I ate in Bangkok.
Whenever I crave soft shell crab rolls or tuna belly sashimi I go to in Central (shop 3099-3100, Podium Level 3, IFC Mall, tel: 2234 7633). They offer simple, high-quality Japanese food that won't empty your wallet.
The food at (98-102 Jaffe Road, Wan Chai, tel: 2143 6626) reminds me of the dishes I tried while travelling across Malaysia. I like the way they do the sauce for the chicken satay and the beef rendang is delicious.