Meet Michelle Duncan: The Creative Force Behind Cuento Sandwiches

Michelle Duncan, co-owner and pastry chef at Cuento Sandwiches, brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for rustic, comfort cuisine to the vibrant eatery nestled in Doral, Florida. With a culinary journey that began in the heart of Ohio, infused with Pennsylvania Dutch influences and her mother's Filipino heritage, Michelle's early life was rich with the flavors and stories that now shape her approach to food.

From surprising her grandparents with breakfast in bed as a child to playing restaurant with her sisters, Michelle's fascination with cooking and baking was evident from a young age. Her career in the restaurant industry began as a hostess at Bob Evans, quickly transitioning to server and then to the prep kitchen, where she began to hone her skills in earnest while still attending high school.

The move to California opened Michelle's eyes to a new world of culinary styles and cultures, further fueling her passion. Attending Le Cordon Bleu Pasadena Culinary School, she excelled in baking and pastries, though her heart led her to the savory side of culinary arts. Michelle's journey through various esteemed kitchens, including Ciudad Restaurant under the guidance of culinary giants Mary Sue Miliken, Susan Feniger, and Kasja Alger, and The Clevelander in South Beach, has been instrumental in shaping her culinary style.

At Cuento Sandwiches, Michelle wears many hats, from pastry chef to all-around culinary dynamo, infusing each dish with love, care, and a pinch of adventure. Her work is a testament to her belief in the power of food to comfort and connect, whether she's perfecting her white chocolate flan or experimenting to create the ultimate vegan cookie.

Michelle's hobbies outside the kitchen, particularly sewing and gardening, reflect her meticulous attention to detail and appreciation for the ingredients and aesthetics of each dish. These passions have only deepened her connection to her culinary creations, making each meal at Cuento Sandwiches a work of heart.

Her journey with David, her partner in life and business, has been a shared adventure of love, learning, and culinary exploration. Together, they've built a space where every guest can find a piece of home.

Michelle's advice to aspiring chefs is grounded in realism and passion: culinary arts is a demanding yet rewarding path, requiring dedication, passion, and a willingness to embrace the challenges head-on. At Cuento Sandwiches, she continues to inspire with her culinary creations, inviting everyone to savor the stories woven into each bite.