Celebrating Culinary Leadership: Honoring the Chefs Who Bridged Cultures at San Miguel y Sus Sabores

hloyolanyc2ps
Jul 31
2 min read

Updated: Jul 31

The spirit of cultural exchange was alive and thriving in San Miguel de Allende during the recent San Miguel y Sus Sabores festival, and two of Palm Springs’ own culinary leaders played an unforgettable role.

Mayor Ron deHarte recently recognized Chef David Arreguín of Tac/Quila and Executive Chef Pedro Baroso of The Parker Palm Springs with the Spirit of Palm Springs Awards for their outstanding contributions to our city’s culture, culinary excellence, and international partnership.

Chef David Arreguín: Bringing the Flavors of Jalisco to the World

Chef Arreguín has long been celebrated for his exceptional culinary vision at Tac/Quila, where the vibrant flavors of authentic Jalisco cuisine come to life in every dish. Beyond his culinary mastery, Chef Arreguín has been a key leader in Palm Springs Sister Cities’ bilateral exchange programs, working tirelessly to expand opportunities for culinary arts students in San Miguel de Allende.

At San Miguel y Sus Sabores, his leadership and mentorship created lasting connections for students—showing that food is more than a meal; it is a language of culture, identity, and friendship.

Chef David Arreguin speaks to UTSMA Culinary School program — *Chef David* *Arreguín tells UTSMA culinary program students and future chefs about the importance of believing in their craft regardless of their English language speaking abilities.*

Executive Chef Pedro Baroso: A Mentor in the Kitchen and Beyond

Known for his inspired blend of Mediterranean and California cuisine at The Parker Palm Springs, Chef Baroso has elevated the city’s culinary scene while also giving back to the next generation of chefs.

At the San Miguel y Sus Sabores festival, he played a pivotal role as a mentor, providing hands-on, real-world experience to students from the Universidad Tecnológica de San Miguel de Allende (UTSMA). His dedication embodies the values of cultural diplomacy and professional development, proving that global education can happen in the most flavorful of ways.

Executive Chef Pedro Baroso speaks with Mayor Ron deHarte at the San Miguel y Sus Sabores Festival — *Executive Chef Pedro Baroso speaks with Mayor deHarte and Palm Springs Sister Cities Board Member Jim Fitzpatrick during the "San Miguel y Sus Sabores" Festival.*

Building Bridges Through Food and Friendship

As highlighted in our previous post, Beyond the Flavors: A Cultural Journey Through San Miguel’s Living History, this year’s festival was more than a celebration of food—it was a celebration of partnership, mentorship, and cultural exchange.

The leadership of Chefs Arreguín and Baroso has strengthened academic and cultural ties between Palm Springs and San Miguel de Allende, opening doors for students to gain international experience, confidence, and career skills that will last a lifetime.

Why It Matters

Programs like these highlight the power of citizen diplomacy—the idea that lasting relationships between communities are built not just by officials, but by people who share their knowledge, culture, and passion.

With the support of Palm Springs Sister Cities, these exchanges transform lives, equipping students with opportunities they might otherwise never have.

Help Us Keep the Exchange Alive

Your support makes these programs possible. Every donation ensures that students have access to travel, mentorship, and once-in-a-lifetime learning opportunities.