Vladimir Costa

Vladimir Costa | Master Chef | Jerome, AZ

The thing with small tourist towns, if you have a restaurant that serves decent food, you’re probably going to get some customers.  Well, I wandered around Jerome, AZ for a few hours, before I happened through the door of 15.quince Grill & Cantina and wow, it just had that feeling of something special.  The look of the place, the energy of the employees, and the food all just amazing.  This was certainly a product of passion, and I was curious as to how it came about…

After a short bit, it became apparent who was behind this, though I’m pretty certain he would not take full credit.  You see, he named his restaurant after the I-Ching Hexagram 15 which represents modesty, and you can sense it’s taken to heart when talking to Vladimir.  He is quick to point out the people surrounding him, and their efforts in making the restaurant what it is. All I can say, is to have a restaurant filled with energy and passion, it requires a source.

In talking, I discovered that he came to Jerome by way of New York, where he was a chef.  What I discovered later, by way of google, is that he is a Master Chef, and very accomplished.  He carries a title and ability that would bring him success in any major city in the country, yet here he is, in Jerome, AZ.  Do I understand it?  Not sure, but there is something to be said about living in a place you love, that is absolutely beautiful, and doing the thing you love.

You take 15.quince and put it in Portland, and I’m a happy man.  Where it sits, I have to say, Vladimir seems to be a happy man.

Check the site here:  15.quince Grill & Cantina