Biography
Carlos Maldonado has always knew that gastronomy was his passion. Thanks to his victory in the third edition of 'MasterChef', the chef from Talavera was able to make an important leap in his training in the culinary world by taking a Master's Degree in Cooking, Technique and Product at the prestigious Basque Culinary Center in San Sebastian. His contact with television continued with the programs 'Cocineros al volante', where Carlos Maldonado toured Spain on a 'foodtruck', 'Cena con Mamá', where he served as presenter and culinary advisor, and 'Como Sapiens', where he teaches the step by step of different recipes.
In 2017 Carlos Maldonado fulfills his dream and opens his own restaurant, 'Raíces', in his hometown. Months later, with 'Raíces' already consolidated as a must-visit place in Talavera de la Reina, Carlos wins the Newcorred Entrepreneur of the Year Award and rises to a finalist position in the prestigious Madrid Fusion Revelation Chef Award.
The great reputation and good work of Carlos Maldonado and his team has led 'Raíces' to achieve its first Sun in the Repsol Guide, the Bib Gourmand mention in the Michelin Guide and last December its first Michelin Star. In addition, 'Raíces' was chosen in 2019 as one of the 10 best restaurants in Spain according to the users of 'El Tenedor'.
In turn, Carlos Maldonado has also wanted to share his elaborations with the general public with the publication of two books: 'MasterChef: Las recetas de Carlos' and 'Cocinando la calle'.
The Cook & Chef Foundation is formed by relevant figures from international haute cuisine and young talent who share a vision of the world based on respect, on ethics, and on the good work of signature cooking.