Dan's Corona MonTaco Countdown: Oscar Hernandez, Tacombi
Chef Oscar Hernandez at Tacombi in downtown Montauk has this advice for area farmers: “Grow what’s native to the region.” Hernandez grew up using what was local in Guadalajara, Mexico, and he lives to share his culture through food. You can get a taste of Hernandez’s fine work at Dan’s Corona MonTaco presented by Don Julio, a Mexican-themed fiesta at Gurney’s Montauk hosted by Adam Richman, Travel Channel host, author, food & travel explorer on July 7 at Gurney’s Montauk. And you might try checking out Hernandez’s favorite thing to do in Montauk: “having a glass of local rosé, watching the sunset.”
My favorite dish to pair with a fine rosé is: ceviche
How old were you when you knew that you’d have a career in food?
I was 10 years old. On Sundays I would go to the market in Guadalajara with my parents to gather ingredients for a family meal that they would make together. I saw the love in it and became very inspired.
Why should consumers seek out local produce and wine?
I grew up eating locally, and I have always believed in the importance of supporting local farmers and communities.
Would you agree that chefs and farmers have a lot in common in that both are a little crazy and overworked?
Yes, we have lots in common. We rely on each other and both have the passion to create. Most of that craziness translates into passion from both the farmers and the chefs.
If I got a tattoo tomorrow it would read: Taco Love
Tell us about the best or most surprising thing you’ve ever eaten.
Small grasshoppers in Guadalajara, as a kid.
What do you have in your pantry that would make another food pro jealous?
Fresh huitlacoche (corn smut)
What local ingredients will you be using in the high summer season?
Montauk fluke and corn
I could create a fine meal with just these five ingredients: pork belly, tomatillos, pumpkin, tomatoes and spring onions
What are you most looking forward to about being a part of Dan’s Taste of Summer?
Getting to know new people and showcasing my culture and our brand through our food
You’re playing DJ. What’s on the playlist for Dan’s MonTaco at Gurney’s Montauk?
Daft Punk, Stevie Wonder, Los Amigos, The Invisibles, and Kinky!
Find the latest info on all of Dan’s Taste of Summer upcoming events this summer—the new Dan’s Corona MonTaco presented by Don Julio at Gurney’s Montauk hosted by Adam Richman, Travel Channel host, author, food & travel explorer on July 7; Dan’s ClambakeMTK at Gurney’s Montauk, back for its second summer on July 8; Dan’s GrillHampton presented by Pat LaFrieda (July 21), celebrating its 5th anniversary; and Dan’s Taste of Two Forks presented by Farrell Building Co. (July 22), now in its 7th year—at DansTaste.com. Follow Dan’s Taste of Summer on Facebook, on Twitter @DansTOS17 and Instagram @DansTasteofSummer. Event Hashtags: #DansTOS, #RoseSoiree, #MonTaco, #ClambakeMTK, #GrillHampton and #TasteofTwoForks.