09/11/2026
After graduating from the Culinary Institute of America as a pastry cook in 1998, Chef Luis Arce Mota’s very first job was at the iconic Windows on the World. It was incredibly thrilling for Luis to work at the top of the world on the 102nd floor. He still remembers how the building would sway like a ship at sea whenever strong winds hit the tower.
Before transitioning to pastry, Luis already had 6 years of experience working the line in kitchens. But pastry was a whole new challenge for him—especially since he’s left-handed! Writing “Happy Birthday” in chocolate script and mastering the delicate decorations took time, and he wasn’t as fast as the others at first.
During those tough moments, the Sous Chef, Norberto Hernandez, was always very kind and offered Luis guidance, practical tips, and the motivation he needed to keep going. Luis worked across pastry production, the service line, and garde manger at Windows, and it was an absolute honor for him to be part of that legendary team.
Today, as the Chef and Owner of La Contenta Oeste, Luis carries those foundational memories and lessons with him every single day, and will always fondly remember his time working with the Windows on the World family. Those early lessons shaped the chef he is today. Swipe 👈 to see a piece of that history with Luis’ handwritten recipes and the original menus from 1998🙏🫶👨🏽🍳
💙In recognition of the 25th Anniversary of the September 11th attacks, La Contenta Oeste is honored to be participating in the 9/11 Memorial & Museum’s “Tribute in Light” Display, in partnership with NYC Tourism + Conventions. Starting at dusk today, we will be illuminating our facade in “Memorial Blue” as part of a citywide tribute, uniting us in a powerful moment of memory and resilience💙
