About Us
At Chef Merito, we’re passionate about flavor. For almost four decades, we’ve spent countless hours perfecting our seasonings, spices, and specialty products like breading mixes, batters, and marinades. From authentic Latin dishes to American classics, we’re dedicated to helping you and your family enjoy bold, delicious flavors in every bite. Whether you're a home cook, retailer, or distributor, Chef Merito brings the perfect kick to your kitchen. So, what will you cook up next?
History of Chef Merito
Plinio Garcia’s passion for flavor often kept him in the kitchen late into the night, still dressed in his business suit, carefully chopping onions and garlic. While his family slept, he would experiment and perfect his recipes in his makeshift test kitchen.
Inspiration struck at all hours—sometimes even in the middle of the night, when he’d jot down ideas in a notebook by his bed. The next morning, Plinio would share his latest creation with his family, like a steak seasoned with paprika and black pepper or sea bass infused with garlic, cumin, and white pepper. His patient wife, Maria, often inspired his culinary explorations with her passion and creativity.
By day, Mr. Garcia worked in the office, but by night, his heart was in the kitchen. His love for experimenting with spices and seasonings naturally evolved into something bigger. It wasn’t about starting a business—it was about his deep passion for food and flavor.
When the wonderful aromas from the Garcia kitchen began drifting through the kitchen window, word of Mr. Garcia’s secret seasonings quickly spread. After countless late nights perfecting his recipes, Plinio launched the family business in 1985. It was Maria who named it Chef Merito, meaning "the best chef," a tribute to his passion and talent.
