The Hands Behind the Heritage
Grandpa Nilo taught us that the best recipes aren't found in books, but in the moments shared around a crowded table. Meet the family dedicated to bringing those moments to your kitchen.
Different Careers, One Shared Table
From engineering and law to medicine and pharmacy, our professional paths are diverse—but our hearts always lead us back to the kitchen. We are the second and third generations dedicated to preserving the flavors Grandpa Nilo loved.
Kemmly Prado de Ortiz | The Founder
Favorite Pairing: Green Sauce with Steak or Salmon.
As Nilo’s daughter, Kemmly inherited more than just her father's recipes; she inherited his soul for hosting. In Venezuela, she practiced law, but in North Carolina, she practices the art of the "Encuentro" (the gathering). To Kemmly, there is no such thing as a "quick chat"—every visit is an opportunity to "traer pasapalos" (bring out the snacks), brew fresh coffee, and make guests feel like family. She founded Grandpa’s Recipes to ensure that even a regular Tuesday night dinner feels like a special event.
Jose Ortiz | Logistics & Market Spirit
Favorite Pairing: Pickled Bell Peppers on a toasted chicken sandwich.
Jose is the engine that keeps us moving. A mechanical engineer by day, he brings that same dedication to the family business—whether he’s waking up at 4:00 AM to roast peppers for the day’s production or managing the complex logistics of our weekend markets. Known as our resident "Barbecue Master," Jose is often teased at the markets for being "the real Grandpa," to which he always laughs and says, "That was my father-in-law!" He believes every meal needs a side of yuca or arepitas, always topped with a generous pour of Green Sauce.
Daniel Ortiz Prado | The Heritage Ambassador
Favorite Pairing: Pickled Eggplant on pita bread with melted cheese.
As the oldest grandson, Daniel spent the most time at Nilo’s side, absorbing stories and watching Animal Planet together for hours. Today, he serves as our "Family Doctor," balancing his medical studies with his love for the market. If you see Daniel at our booth, you’ll find a big smile and a joke ready for you. He carries Nilo’s gift for gab and his deep love for traditional flavors, reminding us all that the best medicine is a good meal and a long laugh.
Natalia Ortiz Prado | Digital Coordinator
Favorite Pairing: Sun-dried Tomatoes with Italian pasta; Green Sauce with Chorizo.
As a pharmacist, Natalia bridges the gap between science and tradition. She used her chemistry expertise to help her mother navigate the pH certifications and tasting requirements that allowed Grandpa’s Recipes to go from a kitchen dream to a professional reality. Though she grew up eating Green Sauce by the spoonful at Friday barbecues, her true love is Nilo’s Pickled Eggplant—the only eggplant recipe she will actually eat! From across the ocean, she manages our digital world, making sure the family story is told with the same love Nilo gave to his grandchildren.