“I am very excited,” said Chef Roderick LeDesma. “I’m really looking forward to making it my own and being able to have fun. I’m looking forward to making menus and great food since that’s what got me into this career to begin with.”

This week, the local food scene was graced with the news of LeDesma taking over as the new Executive Chef at downtown Tucson’s Maynards, 400 N. Toole Ave.

So far, his culinary journey has been an impressive one, and this next move is only furthering his impressive run. It’s all thanks to an animated rat, too!

Before heading into his senior year at the University of Arizona as a psychology student, he had an epiphany while watching the Disney/Pixar film “Ratatouille.” After switching to culinary school and working at In-N-Out Burger for a few years, he earned a spot at Primo at the JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass Resort & Spa.

LeDesma’s final day at Casino Del Sol was earlier this week — mainly gettin’ busy in the kitchen of PY Steakhouse, but he’d lend a hand in the other concepts on the property as well. There, he got to share time with other local greats like Chef Ryan Clark.

“You are one of the most talented chefs I have worked with over the years and it has been a privilege watching you grow,” said Clark, Executive Chef of Casino Del Sol. “Thank you for all you have done to help push our culinary program forward. You will be missed but definitely welcomed at your new venture. Wishing you the best — I know you’re going to crush it!”

Chefs, friends, and local foodies are just as excited about LeDesma’s move, too, expressing their love on social media.

“I cannot wait to see what you do and where you take our career,” said David Solorzano, Executive Chef of Agustin Kitchen. “Tucson is so lucky to have you.”

So, what’s next? Stay tuned for some brand-new dishes as LeDesma puts his creative touch on Maynards’ menu.

“I really want to push the team forward with food and service and make Maynards — the best it can possibly be,” said LeDesma. “Everyone always asks me ‘What kind of food do I like to make’ or ‘What’s my favorite style’ but I don’t really have an answer. I just like to cook and get inspiration from the products I’m using — using solid techniques to make things taste great and look beautiful.”

Stay tuned for the official launch of the new menu. We’ll be sure to keep you in the loop.

Read our October 2023 article, “At Home with Roderick LeDesma.”

Maynards is located at 400 N. Toole Ave. For more information, visit hotelcongress.com. To keep up with Chef Roderick LeDesma, follow him on Instagram.

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