Our Team
Jesus figueroa ortega
Jean George (Jean George NYC), Aaron Silverman (Pineapple & Pearls, Rose’s Luxury, Little Pearl), Giuseppe Tentori (Boka), Andres Lopez (Xiquet), Mark Tarbell (Tarbell’s), Robert Gilbert (Cinderella’s Magic Table, Magic Kingdom, Disney World Resort), Robert Mancuso, CMC (Bohemian Grove), Jacques Qualin (J&G Steakhouse), and Paul Carter (Sanctuary on Camelback)…
…what do these legendary chefs have in common? They have all been essential to developing one of the most exciting and promising chefs to come out of the state of Arizona.
Beyond working with big chefs, Jesus Figueroa has a huge respect for his culture and ancestry. He is inspired by more than just “pretty plates” or “cool techniques”. But rather through his heritage and the way of his parents and grandparents.
XOLO is his latest venture and he is partnering up with Tucson local, Gustavo Vazquez to bring his love letter to the ever growing Mexican-American generation. The cuisine is not strictly Mexican or American but rather a beautiful blend of both akin to the children of Mexican immigrants.
With roots in the Sonoran desert going back hundreds of years, Jesus has a deep knowledge of the culture, cuisine, and produce of the Sonoran desert and is excited to share it with the people of Tucson and beyond!
Gustavo Vazquez
Gustavo Vazquez, the dynamic partner, chef, and owner of XOLO, embodies the spirit of Tucson with every dish he creates. An Arizona Culinary Institute alumnus, Gustavo honed his skills at the renowned Talavera restaurant at the Four Seasons Scottsdale before setting out to create something truly special in his hometown.
At XOLO, Gustavo brings his passion for the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine to life through a menu that celebrates fast, nutritious, and delicious food. His culinary philosophy is deeply inspired by his partner, Chef Jesus, a Michelin-starred chef whose dedication to excellence fuels Gustavo's own pursuit of exceptional food and service.
Gustavo’s connection to the Sonoran Desert is evident in his love for working with seasonal ingredients, showcasing the best of what the region has to offer. Growing up in Tucson, he was profoundly influenced by the cooking of his Nana and Abuelita, whose recipes were seasoned with an extra pinch of love. This legacy of warmth and authenticity continues to inspire his approach to cooking at XOLO, where every meal is crafted with heartfelt dedication.
Grateful for the unwavering support of friends and family, Gustavo views XOLO as a testament to their encouragement and his own relentless pursuit of culinary excellence. Through XOLO, he aims to share not just great food, but the love and care that have always been at the heart of his culinary journey.