Mario Laufer: From Gas Station to Health-Conscious Culinary Empire

Introduction

Mario Laufer, a Cuban-born chef, embarked on an extraordinary journey that led him from the shores of his homeland to the helm of Carrot Express, a health-conscious restaurant chain with a robust presence in South Florida and New York. His introduction to America in 1961 sparked a passion for the culinary arts that would eventually culminate in the establishment of a thriving business, where fresh, delicious, and nutritious food takes center stage.

Culinary Roots

Mario’s culinary beginnings can be traced back to the early 1990s when, as a young man, he started selling food at his cousin’s gas station in Miami Beach. It was there that he honed his skills, preparing simple yet delectable dishes such as pita sandwiches, chicken salads, and tuna salads. These humble beginnings laid the foundation for the future success of Carrot Express.

The Birth of Carrot Express

In 2012, Mario’s dream of owning a true eatery came to fruition with the opening of the original Carrot Express, strategically located not far from the gas station where his culinary journey had commenced. The name of the restaurant was a nod to The Last Carrot, a restaurant in Miami’s Coconut Grove neighborhood that had left an indelible mark on Mario during his high school years.

Culinary Philosophy

Mario’s culinary philosophy is centered around freshness, quality, and simplicity. He meticulously selects high-quality ingredients, emphasizing the use of fresh fish, healthy oils, and wholesome produce. His unwavering commitment to providing nutritious and flavorful food has earned Carrot Express a loyal following among health-conscious diners.

Concept and Menu

Carrot Express offers a diverse menu that caters to a wide range of dietary preferences and tastes. Among their signature dishes is Mario’s Favorite Chicken Bowl, a culinary creation inspired by a meal that Mario often prepared for himself during work. The bowl features a harmonious blend of cubed chicken, brown rice, quinoa, spinach, scallions, almonds, and a zesty citrus sauce.

Recipe: Mario’s Favorite Chicken Bowl

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 5 ounces cubed chicken
• 4 ounces pre-cooked brown rice
• 4 ounces pre-cooked quinoa
• 1 handful spinach
• 1 teaspoon chopped scallions
• 1 tablespoon chopped almonds
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 ounces citrus sauce (see below)
• 1 ounce sesame seeds (for garnish)

Citrus Sauce:

• 1½ ounces orange juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lime juice
• 1⁄3 teaspoon honey
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add scallions and sauté. Add the chicken and sauté until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Add spinach.
3. Add 1 ounce of citrus sauce, stirring until the greens are slightly wilted. Add brown rice, quinoa, 2 ounces of citrus sauce, salt, and pepper and mix until everything is evenly coated.
4. Cook for 5 minutes.
5. Serve in a bowl and top with 1 ounce of citrus sauce and chopped almonds. Garnish with sesame seeds (optional).

Conclusion

Mario Laufer’s journey from humble beginnings at a gas station to the helm of a successful health-conscious restaurant chain is a testament to his unwavering passion for food, his commitment to freshness and quality, and his dedication to providing delicious and nutritious meals to his customers. Carrot Express stands as a symbol of Mario’s culinary vision, offering a beacon of wholesome and vibrant dining in the bustling landscapes of South Florida and New York.