Influenced by his artistic mother, Peruvian Virgilio Martinez displayed his culinary passion at a very early age. The former pro skater was forced to travel abroad to develop his passion as there were no culinary schools in his native homeland. Whilst traveling and living a nomadic lifestyle Virgilio gained his experience by working with chefs from many countries including Japan, France, Italy and Vietnam. He then went on to finish his culinary training at Le Cordon Bleu in Canada and London. Now recognized as one of Peru's celebrity chefs, Virgilio is renowned for his distinct Peruvian style and use of the regions ingredients in the creation of his unique dishes, and now runs his own portfolio of restaurants in Peru, London and Johannesburg