Bienvenidos!
Chef Ena Linares

Ena's Journey
Igniting Passion, Embracing Diversity and Inspiring Others 

In the bustling streets of the Bronx, on a warm June day in 1972, Ena Linares was born. Her parents, Evelio and Yolanda, had recently arrived from Cuba, bringing with them a rich heritage and a love for their Afro-Cuban cuisine. Ena's upbringing was steeped in the tantalizing aromas and vibrant flavors that filled her home.

As a young girl, Ena reveled in the diverse culinary experiences that her parents provided. Her father, hailing from Pinar Del Rio, Cuba, brought a unique flair to his dishes, while her mother, a native of Havana, added her own touch of culinary magic. Food in the Linares household was not just sustenance; it was a masterpiece that brought joy and togetherness. Sundays were reserved for indulging in mouthwatering Cuban BBQ at Tio Pepe's house, while holidays were spent in the loving embrace of Tia Lizzy's kitchen. And whenever there was a social event, Yolanda's catering skills shone, leaving everyone in awe.

One fateful day, when Ena was just 9 years old, she found herself in the kitchen, assisting her mother in preparing "Arina con cangrejo y quingombo." The aroma of this dish permeated every corner of their home, beckoning all who passed by. It was a meal that left a lasting impression on Ena and her guests, evoking pure delight and wonder. In that moment, Ena's dreams of becoming a movie star or singer took a backseat as a new aspiration ignited within her – to become a phenomenal cook, on par with her peers or even surpassing them.

From an early age, Ena's culinary journey was fueled by a relentless pursuit of excellence. She dubbed herself the "greedy fat girl," driven by a desire to create outstanding dishes that would leave a lasting impact. Reinventing traditional recipes and infusing them with her own unique twist became her signature style. Ena's food was a harmonious blend of down-home comfort and innovative creativity.

At the age of 19, Ena embarked on a transformative chapter in her life, moving to Alabama. Here, she immersed herself in the world of soul food, learning from the wise and experienced hands of grandmothers, Medeas, aunties, and great-grandmothers. It was a time of discovery, where she unraveled the untold stories of Afro-American history and real-life events. Living off the land, embracing the simplicity of farming, and connecting with nature became an unforgettable experience for Ena. During this time, she also worked at a truck stop, finding solace and joy in cooking for others. The gratification she felt when people praised her delectable creations was immeasurable.

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In 1996 Ena's culinary adventure began with a humble desire to share her love for food and build her reputation. She fearlessly offered her services for free, catering to parties, social events, and picnics with unrivaled dedication. Her selflessness and commitment to her craft were unparalleled, as she poured her heart into creating memorable experiences for others. Through these acts of generosity, Ena seamlessly assimilated into the vibrant culture of South Florida, expanding her culinary repertoire to include the tantalizing flavors of Bahamian, Jamaican, Trinidadian, African, and Haitian cuisines. Each new culinary journey was an explosive exploration of diverse tastes, an exhilarating challenge that Ena embraced wholeheartedly.

In 2010, Ena's path took a thrilling turn as she found herself cooking at a prestigious club in the heart of Miami Gardens. This prestigious establishment opened doors to a new clientele, one composed of esteemed individuals from the worlds of music, sports, comedy, and wealth. However, Ena's unwavering belief in the power of community and the importance of genuine connections led her to recognize that the true measure of her success lay in the adoration and support of the locals. Their appreciation and love fueled her passion, affirming her place in the culinary world. As Ena often states, "what's most important are the locals who appreciate and love you, for they are the foundation of my success." And so, the tale of Ena's legacy continued, with history still unfolding and new chapters waiting to be written.

Ena's entrepreneurial spirit led her to establish two remarkable ventures. From 2000 to 2009, she created Garden of Eden Catering Services Inc., a business that blossomed and flourished under her skilled guidance. Then, from 2011-2018, Ena was presented with an irresistible offer—an opportunity to have complete control over the kitchens of two prestigious gentlemen's clubs where she served as head chef. It was during this time that the name "Chef Ena Kitchen" was born, symbolizing her unwavering commitment to infusing her Afro-Cuban roots into every dish she crafted. During this time, Ena was blessed to also open her own restaurant in Fort Lauderdale, FL from 2016-2019 which was a dream come true. 

Chef Ena's relentless pursuit of culinary excellence knows no bounds. She is forever on the quest for the next groundbreaking creation, sourcing only the finest and freshest ingredients. With each dish, Ena masterfully reinvents and infuses traditional recipes with her Afro-Cuban heritage, resulting in a harmonious fusion of flavors that tantalize the taste buds. But Ena's journey is not solely about gastronomic delights. After taking five years to embark on a spiritual reflection and regrouping journey, she has reignited her passion for personal chef services. Now, her focus extends beyond the realm of cooking. Ena seeks to inspire and uplift others, drawing from her own life experiences to provide Christian counseling and business coaching. Through her guidance, she aims to help others navigate their paths, avoiding the mistakes she herself has made, and fostering a life filled with fulfillment and divine inspiration.

Ena's story is one of resilience, unwavering dedication, and a deep-rooted appreciation for the transformative power of food. Her journey continues to unfold, a testament to the indomitable spirit of a culinary artist who has truly found her calling. As Ena forges ahead, she leaves an enduring impact on all those fortunate enough to taste her creations and benefit from her wisdom.