09/16/2026
Meet the Martinho’s Crew
Episode 1:19 Manolo Martinez
With a kind smile on his face every time he walks in the door, Manolo is a treasure in our kitchen. He has worked in the food industry a long time and, beyond his demeanor, he is well-known for his skills on the grill, so other restaurants are constantly trying to lure him away. But Manolo loves it here. When things get busy, he says, the Martinho’s crew works like a well-organized team. He describes our workplace as one where everyone gets along and lifts each other up, not something he’s experienced in other restaurants.
Manolo applied to work here after a friend – and former employee - recommended that he do so. That decision led to him becoming part of our kitchen for the past 2 ½ years, first slicing deli meats and cheeses, then working at the cold sub station, and now on the grill, where he thrives. Although Manolo isn’t here quite full-time, he’s an integral part of the crew. In addition to being a cook who’s committed to excellence, he helps perpetuate the team mentality that prevails here. His one self-proclaimed flaw: he cannot get to work on time. And his kitchen co-workers are happy to give him plenty of grief about it.
The one thing that Manolo would change is his near-daily commute from Durham to Mebane. He really likes Mebane and would prefer to live here with his wife and two children, ages 14 and 10; and he hopes to make that happen soon. Beyond saving money on car maintenance and gas, living closer would allow more time to play the guitar, go to the movies with his family, make spontaneous and fun plans, sing and dance with family and friends, and play with his dogs (Nito and Snoopy).
While we also want Manolo to realize his other dream of returning to his native Mexico City with his family in a few years and sending his children to the university there, we’d also love to keep him around here forever. His exceptional talent, kindness, and calm presence make him truly irreplaceable in our often-hectic kitchen. So if you happen to catch Manolo when you’re here, take a moment to say hello and join us in expressing gratitude for the contributions that he makes to this special place.