Born and raised in Torreón, Mexico, Núñez discovered his passion for cooking during a formative year in college after reading Anthony Bourdain’s Kitchen Confidential. Inspired by the book’s perspective on the culinary world, Núñez enrolled at the Art Institute of Houston at age 19, excelling in his studies and finding his true calling in the kitchen.
A backpacking trip to Europe expanded Núñez’s understanding of global cuisine, exposing him to the artistry of Italian kitchens and inspiring him to refine his craft. Upon returning to Texas, he honed his skills at renowned Austin restaurants, including La Condesa, Barley Swine, and Launderette, where he rose to the position of Chef de Cuisine.
In 2018, at just 28 years old, Núñez took a leap of faith and partnered with restaurateur Samuel Hellman-Mass to open Suerte, a groundbreaking Austin restaurant fueled by a passion for masa and a vision to blend traditional Mexican cooking techniques with local Texas ingredients. The venture was a dream come true, with Suerte quickly earning national recognition. Núñez was named Eater Austin Chef of the Year (2018), included on Food & Wine Magazine’s Best New Chefs list (2021), and nominated for the James Beard Award for Best Chef: Texas (2024).
Committed to community, Núñez also supports initiatives like Urban Roots, the Mike & Sherry Project, and Jolt, fostering leadership, mental health support, and Latino empowerment.
Restaurants
Nestled on East Sixth Street, Núñez’s debut Mexican restaurant, Suerte, tempts diners with the enticing aroma of toasted corn and a promise of authentic yet innovative Mexican flavors. Inside, the restaurant reimagines Mexican traditions with a modern twist, described by its team as “inspired by the people, cooking techniques, and flavors of Mexico.”
At the heart of Suerte’s menu is masa, handmade daily from Texas corn. A dedication to craftsmanship is on show at the open tortilla station, the engine of the menu, where 2,500 to 3,000 tortillas are produced fresh every shift, reflecting Núñez’s pursuit of the perfect tortilla.
The restaurant’s rustic-contemporary interior, with earthy tones, pared-back wooden counters, and an open kitchen, creates a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere that sets the stage for the arrival of bold dishes like rich tlacoyos and crisp tostadas washed down with delicious cocktails.
A cornerstone of Austin’s culinary scene, Suerte’s commitment to excellence has garnered national acclaim, earning a Michelin recommendation too.
In 2022, Núñez expanded his vision with Este, a coastal Mexican restaurant named Best New Restaurant 2023 by Bon Appétit. Nearby, Bar Toti opened in 2023, offering casual bites and solidifying Núñez’s reputation for elevating comfort food with flair.
Recipes and dishes
Núñez’s culinary philosophy is deeply rooted in his Mexican heritage, with a profound respect for traditional techniques while embracing innovation and local ingredients. At his award-winning Austin restaurant, Suerte, Núñez redefines Mexican cuisine by spotlighting masa—crafted daily from heirloom corn using the ancient nixtamalization process. This transformative technique yields tortillas and tostadas so rich in flavor that they redefine corn's essence.
Núñez is devoted to showcasing the versatility of masa in unexpected and elevated ways. Signature dishes like the suadero tacos, featuring slow-cooked brisket in perfectly charred tortillas, epitomize his ability to blend tradition with creativity. Another standout, the queso fundido tlacoyo, a masa pocket filled with gooey cheese and vibrant garnishes, offers a fresh take on a beloved classic. Other notable creations, such as barbacoa, ceviche, and tacos drizzled with ‘black magic oil’ (a blend of sesame and smoked morita chiles), further demonstrate his commitment to elevating traditional Mexican cooking.
Beyond Suerte, Núñez expands his culinary repertoire at Este, where he celebrates coastal Mexican cuisine with dishes like charcoal-grilled whole fish and bright agua chiles. At Bar Toti, a playful bistro, he serves comfort fare like the iconic Mexican Smashburguesa, solidifying his reputation for innovative yet authentic flavors.
Núñez’s innovative approach has also garnered appearances on the small screen in Netflix’s The Taco Chronicles and Bon Appétit’s Brad Makes Tortillas, among others. Núñez’s dedication to sourcing local ingredients and honoring his heritage has established him as a trailblazer in reimagining Mexican cuisine for today’s diners.
