Taste of Space at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is well underway and we want to introduce the Chefs behind the seasonal flavors. This week, meet Sous Chef Israel “Izzy” Arroyo, CSC. Chef Izzy joined the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex team in 2018 and has been in the culinary business for about 13 years.
His resume includes an upscale restaurant called the Twisted Fork, kitchen lead at Bistro333 and Sous Chef of the banquets and catering department both at a Hyatt Regency, and as Sous Chef at Mattys Bar and Grill-- all in Milwaukee, WI. It was there that he had the opportunity to work with Delaware North, the hospitality entity currently operating the visitor complex, and Miller Park. He started as the Suites Lead and eventually moved up to the Legends Club Chef for the Milwaukee Brewers. During the baseball off-season, Delaware North flew him to different locations that needed support. Chef Izzy landed at the visitor complex during the Falcon Heavy Demo rocket launch, which sparked the interest to work at the space center.
When the Sous Chef position opened up at the visitor complex, he joined the team full time. Chef Izzy currently has his Certified Sous Chef certification through the American Culinary Federation, and is in the process of going for his Chef de Cuisine Certification.
We asked Chef Izzy tells us more about his interests. This is what he had to say:
What do you love most about your chosen career?
"I love that I am constantly learning and growing every day. I love hospitality in general, knowing that I am making someone happy with a meal or am part of an event that someone has been looking forward to."
Do you specialize in any particular cuisine? Or have a fondness for any?
"I am most fond of Puerto Rican cuisine or just Island Hispanic cuisine in general (Cuban, Dominican, etc.)."
What have you enjoyed most about preparing for Taste of Space?
"Taste of Space is a truly unique experience combining well thought-out food in an unforgettable setting. I love partaking in events like this because I am able to be a part of a guest experience that is memorable."
This year's Taste of Space: Fall Bites! takes place from October 8 to November 5, 2021. Come treat your taste buds to fun new seasonal flavors at Orbit Cafe and Moon Rock Cafe. These chef-inspired meals can also be enjoyed with a local brew (sold separately) from the Space Coast. While tickets are available, guests can also join us for a special ticketed event, Taste of Space: A Culinary Journey on November 5, 2021.
Next week, learn about Chef Gidget Wickham, Executive Chef at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.
About Delaware North
The visitor complex is operated by Delaware North which manages hotels, resorts, cultural attractions and parks to make countless memories for millions of guests each year. Delaware North's world-class food service management is praised by our guests for excellence and innovation. As a leader in food service management, Delaware North is the official caterer for the visitor complex.