Chef Arnaldo Castillo, owner and executive chef of Tio Lucho’s in Atlanta, Ga. is an enigma; born in Peru, raised in the South, and with one foot planted firmly in both cultures. These distinct worlds carry a heavy hand in culture and flavor, presenting Chef Arnaldo with a unique opportunity as a culinary chameleon- stick to his formal training, creating traditional fare from each region or press the boundaries to a point where he is moving into uncharted territory. As a James Beard Award semifinalist for Best Chef in the Southeast, he has found his path but he has much to impart from how he got here. Sharing his story one plate at a time, Castillo’s mission to show Atlantans Peruvian food through a southern lens began long before the Poncey-Highland eatery opened its doors in 2022. Creator of the popular food pop up, La Chingana, Castillo first showcased Peruvian flavors in the city through sought after ticketed tasting menus, private dinners, and a la carte pop ups. Inspired by his father, Luis, who was a cook and caterer, Castillo has been a part of the restaurant industry since the age of 16. Having worked in a variety of roles along his culinary journey, he has learned the industry in the kitchens of esteemed Atlanta restaurants. Embarking on the adventure of opening Tio Lucho’s was a dream born after the pandemic when Castillo realized his at-home cooking featured mostly Peruvian inspired dishes