Every chef has at least one secret ingredient they rely on to turn a simple meal into a meaningful memory. To celebrate the grand reopening of small businesses across the nation, we are partnering with some of our favorite local chefs from Miami, Detroit, and Seattle to demonstrate for cardholders how to prepare a signature recipe with that one special ingredient that takes their dish over the top! Each chef is known for their one-of-a-kind twists on their favorite regional cuisine. 

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Chef Mika Leon - Empanadas de Picadillo

Inspired by her grandfather who opened a chain of restaurants in Cuba after migrating from Spain, Chef Monica “Mika” Leon, has been delivering bold Latin flavors to the Sunshine State since launching her very own restaurant, Caja Caliente in Coral Gables. Chef Mika has been featured on The Food Network, Guy’s Grocery Store Games, and most recently on Beat Bobby Flay! Join Chef Mika live as she shares her secret ingredients for launching her business while she teaches Mastercard cardholders how to make a Latin American Empanada!

Link to Recipe: here

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Chef Melissa Miranda - Beef Mechado

Seattle’s Rising Star, Chef Melissa Miranda, has been redefining the presence of Filipino food through her restaurant Musang, whose menu blends her culinary talent with dishes that bring her back to her favorite childhood memories. Join Chef Melissa Miranda live as she teaches Mastercard cardholders how to cook Beef Mechado while sharing her secret recipe for successfully managing her business and also making an impact in her community.

Link to recipe: here

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Chef Lena Sareini - Kalamata Olive Tart with Whipped Yogurt & Figs

Detroit’s James Beard Rising Star Chef of the Year nominee, Chef Lena Sareini, is well-known in the city’s foodie scene for making one-of-a-kind, American pastries that are inspired from Lebanese culinary traditions. Chef Lena has been featured in Food & Wine Best New Chefs 2020, Eater – No Passport Required, and was recently named an Eater Young Gun! Learn to bake a flavorful Kalamata Olive Tart with Whipped Yogurt and Figs from one of Detroit’s best pastry chefs as she shares her secret recipe to discovering her artful passion in the culinary scene.

Link to recipe: here