Deep in the Andes mountains near Machu Picchu, Lenin Costas’ story began with his grandfather, a gold miner during Peru’s 1940s gold rush. Tragically, his grandfather passed away from cancer at just 38, leaving behind Lenin’s grandmother—a resilient woman who turned hardship into opportunity. To support her family, she sold soups from a pushcart on weekends while working as a house cleaner in Lima. Her culinary talent blossomed, and by 1970, she had opened her own restaurant in the Surquillo neighborhood of Lima. Over the next 33 years, her restaurant became a beloved local fixture.

Lenin grew up immersed in this world of food and family. From ages 11 to 16, he lived with his grandmother, helping out in the bustling kitchen where hospitality and flavor were second nature. These formative years instilled in him a love for cooking and a deep respect for tradition.

In 1995, Lenin moved to New York City to join his mother. He started working in the city’s vibrant restaurant scene, where he quickly climbed the ranks. In 2017, his passion for Peruvian cuisine inspired him to launch Don Ceviche, a weekend pop-up that introduced New Yorkers to the bold, fresh flavors of Peru.

Now, Lenin is setting his sights on a new venture: healthy, ingredient-driven cuisine. With his latest project at Essex Market, he brings a fresh perspective to the salad bar, drawing from his Peruvian roots while emphasizing clean, balanced eating. For Lenin, it’s not just about serving food—it’s about creating an experience that nourishes both the body and soul.

‘We hope that you’ll dine with us soon.’

Lenin