Meet the Team
We are here to serve you and make your experience on campus one to remember. We encourage you to get to know our team and engage with us as we build a welcoming and inclusive campus community together.
Brandywine
AlexanderMachucaExecutive Sous Chef
Chef Alex began his culinary journey as a dishwasher at Pippin Commons at UC Irvine and worked his way up to become a chef. With dedication and guidance from mentors, he discovered a deep love for cooking that continues to drive him. Now with over a decade of experience, Alex is constantly evolving, learning, and striving to be the best version of himself both in and out of the kitchen.
Achievements: ProChef II
AngelCastilloChef Manager
Food was limited for Angel growing up in a single‑parent home, but watching his mom creatively feed three kids on less than $100 a week inspired him. That resourcefulness now drives his commitment to creating the best food possible in any situation. Chef Angel enjoys exploring new flavors each day, fueling his passion for cooking, and believes that effort will never betray you—especially in what you serve.
Achievements: Certified AllerTrainer, ProChef II
JorgeZontlimatziChef Manager
Since childhood, Chef Jorge has loved helping his mom in the kitchen, sparking his passion for food. In high school, he joined the culinary arts program and later worked in restaurants and catering while studying at Orange Coast College to refine his craft. Fond of freshly made pasta, he draws inspiration from the world around him and enjoys creating fusion recipes that blend diverse flavors.
The Anteatery
RaulPorciunculaExecutive Sous Chef
Chef Raul knew his calling from an early age, inspired by the foods and flavors around him. After studying Psychology and later attending culinary school, he built his career in restaurants, hotels, and private clubs across Orange County before joining the UC Irvine Dining team. He is driven by the belief that simple ingredients can be transformed in unique ways that excite the senses, motivating him to continually elevate his craft.
Achievements: ProChef II
AlejandraVargasSous Chef
Growing up, Alejandra loved watching her mom cook all the food for her family or big family events. Since the age of 10, Alejandra loved making food for her and her sisters when her mom and dad were working, whether it was savory food or making cakes from scratch. Culinary school and working in restaurants, hotels, and country clubs opened a whole new world of food and fusion.
Juan JoseGutierrezChef Manager
Juan brings strong leadership and culinary expertise to the Anteatery team. A graduate of the Le Cordon Bleu Kitchen Academy in Hollywood, he blends classical training with a passion for elevating Residential Dining and mentoring his staff. Inspired by family members who were professional chefs, Juan began working in kitchens at an early age, shaping his disciplined approach, work ethic, and appreciation for teamwork. Outside of work, he enjoys soccer and hiking with his daughter, interests that reflect his energetic spirit, commitment to balance, and dedication to family.
UC Irvine Catering
MoisesMedinaCatering Director
Moises began his career with UC Irvine Dining as a part-time student employee in April 2012 before being promoted to Supervisor, and then Manager, and most recently to Catering Director. He has spent his professional career in the hospitality industry, also running the catering department at Cal State Fullerton and working over 200 weddings catering at a wedding venue. In his free time, Moises likes to go cycling, watch sports, and spend time with his daughter.
StevenOntiverosExecutive Chef
Chef Steven Ontiveros has been the Executive Chef of Catering at UC Irvine Dining for 3 years, during which time he has shown a wonderful depth of knowledge and respect for food and cooking that has led him to pass the ProChef II certification and place 3rd in the Aramark ACE competition for the West region. Mostly self-taught, Chef Steven prides himself in taking a jovial approach to gastronomy that yields fun and inventive creations.
Achievements: ProChef II
VictorValenzuelaChef Manager
Hailing from Bellflower, California, Chef Victor Valenzuela brings homegrown talent and culinary charm to the UCI Catering Team. He began his career as a grill cook while studying Classic French and International Cuisines at the Art Institute of Costa Mesa. After graduating in 2007, Victor refined his skills across Orange County, including at the Aliso Viejo Country Club, before joining UCI Catering in 2017. He worked his way from sous-chef to chef manager and recently earned his spot at the ACE Competition after placing 3rd in the preliminary Battle for the West. Victor’s passion for food is rooted in family, inspired by memories of his mother’s chilaquiles and his father’s asada.
Achievements: ProChef II
JenniferParmanCatering Business Manager
Jennifer Parman has worked at the University of California, Irvine since 2007. In this role, she oversees day-to-day catering operations while collaborating closely with campus partners to ensure efficient operations, high service standards, and successful events. She has a background in full-service restaurants and retail, bringing extensive experience in operational management. In her free time, you can find her spending time with her family or exploring local food and dining experiences.
