'Top Chef: Las Vegas'

Santiago currently resides in Atlanta, Ga.

Profession: Chef-Owner, Pura Vida ~ Latino Tapas Restaurant & Bar

Culinary Education: AOS Culinary Arts, Culinary Institute of America

Favorite Simple Summer Recipe: Charcoal Grilled Skirt steak with a Vegetable Ceviche (celery, radishes, tomatoes and whatever else is available from local farmers)

Foodie Fact: Santiago has a long list of culinary accolades - including two James Beard nominations for "Best Chef, Southeast." Santiago hopes to raise the cultural awareness of Latin American products and cuisine, and is currently working on a hot pepper-inspired culinary venture he refers to as "taming the heat."