Chef Martin Rodriguez

Izakaya | Cairo

Martin Rodriguez graduated from the Peruvian Institute of Chefs in Lima, complementing his culinary training with studies in marketing and professional theatre. Over the past 17 years, he has built a remarkable career across the globe, honing his craft in some of the most esteemed Nikkei restaurants in Lima and Chile, and at Temple — a celebrated Contemporary Japanese restaurant at the Intercontinental Hotel in Santiago. Martin’s earliest inspiration came from his grandmother, who introduced him to the soul of Peruvian cuisine.

As a child, he would accompany her to the family farm and local markets, carefully selecting fresh ingredients before helping her prepare meals for family and friends. These cherished moments instilled in him a profound respect for tradition, authenticity, and the art of bringing people together through food. Throughout his career, Martin has immersed himself in a wide spectrum of culinary cultures — from Chinese and Indian to Korean, Thai, Spanish, Colombian, Peruvian, and Japanese. He continues to study, experiment, and refine his techniques, with the mission of creating unforgettable dining experiences that linger in memory long after the last bite.

Today, Martin’s vision is to celebrate the flavors of his homeland while embracing the bounty of Egypt. By blending Peruvian roots with new ingredients and textures, he seeks to craft refined, harmonious dishes that embody both authenticity and innovation. His passion lies in developing restaurant concepts that elevate dining into something truly special in today’s competitive gastronomic landscape. In 2025, Izakaya Cairo — the flagship of his culinary journey in Egypt — was awarded the 34th spot on MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants, a recognition Martin considers one of his greatest achievements. Izakaya is where his experience, artistry, passion, and creativity shine daily, offering guests a true reflection of his culinary identity.