Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Yvonne Enriquez. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Alright, Yvonne thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Let’s kick things off with your mission – what is it and what’s the story behind why it’s your mission?
Texas Culinary Institute started in March 2022 with a mission to create a culinary experience like no other. When my husband, David Rojas, and I first began working on the idea of opening a culinary school in El Paso, Texas, I was going through a very difficult time. My mother had just passed away after a three-year battle with multiple myeloma, and I was searching for solace and peace.
Cooking has always been my refuge, a way for me to relax and find comfort. I firmly believe that food has the power to transport emotions, and I wanted to share that with others. I wanted to create a space where people could feel at ease and comfortable in the kitchen, where they could find joy and relaxation through the act of cooking.
We designed a three-hour class with a three-course menu, led by a skilled chef who would guide our students through the cooking experience. But we didn’t stop there. We wanted to create a truly immersive experience, so if we were cooking Italian cuisine, we would fill the air with Italian music. People could take their wine and dance while they cooked, truly embracing the spirit of Italy, for example.
My mission with this culinary school is to make people feel loved, relaxed, at peace, and comfortable. I want them to enjoy a culinary cooking experience that goes beyond just learning recipes and techniques. I want them to feel a sense of connection, to find joy in the act of cooking, and to leave our school with a renewed love for food and the power it holds to bring people together.
Opening the Texas Culinary Institute has been a labor of love, and I am grateful for the opportunity to share my passion with others. I hope that everyone who walks through our doors feels the warmth and love that we have poured into creating this culinary experience.

Yvonne, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
At the Texas Culinary Institute, we offer a variety of cooking classes designed to make our students feel loved, relaxed, and at peace. Our flagship class is a three-hour session with a three-course menu, led by a skilled chef who guides participants through the cooking experience. But what sets us apart is the attention to detail and the immersive atmosphere we create. It’s about more than just learning recipes; it’s about creating a connection and finding joy in the act of cooking.
I am most proud of the atmosphere we have created at the Texas Culinary Institute. We have poured our hearts and souls into making it a place of warmth, love, and relaxation. We want everyone who walks through our doors to feel like they are part of our family, and to leave with a renewed love for food and the power it holds to bring people together.
I want potential clients, followers, and fans to know about the Texas Culinary Institute is that we are more than just a culinary school. We are a place of connection, joy, and love. We provide an experience that goes beyond just learning recipes and techniques. We want to make people feel at ease and comfortable in the kitchen, and to help them discover the joy and relaxation that cooking can bring.
If you are looking for a culinary experience like no other, I invite you to join us at the Texas Culinary Institute. Come and immerse yourself in the world of food, music, and connection. We can’t wait to share our passion with you.

We’d love to hear about how you met your business partner.
My co-founder is also my husband, David, and I couldn’t ask for a better cheerleader by my side. He brings a wealth of experience to our partnership, having managed both a high school and a university as the owner of those schools. In addition, he was the director of the culinary arts program at the university, which gives him a deep understanding of the industry.
When I was going through my difficult times, David was there to support me every step of the way. He encouraged me to open the Texas Culinary Institute and guided me through the process, helping me get back on my feet. As someone who had been a stay-at-home mom for the past 10 years, I struggled with imposter syndrome and doubted my abilities. But David never wavered in his belief in me. He saw my potential and made me believe in myself.
I have a background in environmental science, but I hadn’t worked in that field for a very long time. I felt like I had lost touch with my professional self. But David saw something in me that I couldn’t see in myself. He pushed me to step out of my comfort zone and embrace my passion for cooking. He inspired me to become a better boss to our employees and to lead with confidence.
David’s unwavering support and belief in me have been instrumental in the success of the Texas Culinary Institute. Together, we make a great team, complementing each other’s strengths and pushing each other to be the best versions of ourselves. I am grateful every day to have him by my side, not just as my husband, but as my co-founder and partner in this culinary journey.
To all the potential clients, followers, and fans of the Texas Culinary Institute, know that behind this school is a dynamic duo who believes in the power of food and the importance of creating a unique culinary experience. We are here to inspire you, and help you discover the joy and passion that cooking can bring.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?
Overall, our reputation within the market has been built on our commitment to creating a unique and immersive culinary experience, our skilled and passionate chefs, our warm and welcoming atmosphere, and our dedication to customer satisfaction. These factors have helped us establish ourselves as a trusted and respected culinary school in our community.

Contact Info:
- Website: Www.txculinary.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/tx_culinary
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/txculinary

