TWO POWERHOUSES JOIN FORCES
Distinguished Chef de Cuisine, Marcelino Ramos, hailing from the prestigious Piccolo Virtu in Scottsdale and lauded as the recipient of the 2023 New Time's 'Best New Restaurant' award, enters into a refined collaboration with the talented Pour Bastards, the duo behind the 2023 New Time's 'Best Place to Take a Cocktail Geek.' These award winning industry experts join forces to present an entirely novel and unparalleled cocktail bar experience, seamlessly interwoven with a chef-centric menu, designed to satisfy the discerning palates of Roosevelt Row diners that are looking to enjoy the highest level of food and beverage Arizona has to offer.
We proudly present,
MARCELINO RAMOS
&
IVAN HERRERA
With over 18 years of restaurant experience, Ivan has navigated through corporate powerhouses like the White Chocolate Grill to James Beard-nominated Virtú Honest Craft, where he dedicated the last eight years of his career. Specializing in sculpting hospitality experiences, Ivan has been integral in creating atmospheres where every guest feels like a VIP. Leading successful restaurant groups, he excels in recruiting and nurturing top-tier service teams, fostering a culture that enhances each patron's visit.
Mars, as his friends call him, embarked on his culinary journey in 2006, graduating from the prestigious Scottsdale Culinary Institute with an Associates of Occupational Studies in Le Cordon Bleu Culinary Arts. Venturing into the culinary world, Mars honed his skills in Santa Fe, New Mexico, training under the guidance of Chef Marc Quinones. Seeking a deeper understanding of global flavors, he spent four immersive weeks in Valladolid, Yucatan, Mexico, delving into the rich tapestry of culture and cuisine unique to the region. Mar's continued to add tools to his workbelt traveling internationally to study in Fratte Rosa, Italy, serving as a Chef/Consultant at "La Locanda del Cavalo."
Returning to the U.S., he contributed to the culinary landscape at "Prado," the Montelucia Resort's most elevated concept nestled at the base of Camelback Mountain in Paradise Valley.
Further refining his craft, Marcelino mastered the art of cooking on a Japanese robata grill at "ROKA AKOR" in Scottsdale. After that tenure his culinary journey reached a significant milestone with six years of dedicated service at "Virtu Honest Craft" in Old Town Scottsdale. His culinary prowess culminated in the role of Chef de Cuisine at Piccolo Virtu, earning the prestigious Phoenix New Times "Best New Restaurant 2023" award.
Today, Mars and Ivan are the owners of "CARVAO catering and events," offering one of the Valley's most unique catering experiences, specializing in live fire cooking. Together, Ivan and Mars bring a wealth of culinary knowledge and experience to the table, seamlessly blending their diverse backgrounds and skills to create memorable dining experiences in the greater Phoenix area of Arizona.