Cooking Up Conversation: Leche de Tigre chef-owner Emil Oliva looks to keep things fresh

Name: Emil Oliva Job: Chef-owner, Leche de Tigre Birthplace: Laredo, Texas Years in food service: 12 Big impact: Oliva opened upscale Peruvian restaurant Leche de Tigre, 318 E. Cevallos St., with his brothers Axel and Alec. The Southtown eatery has gone on to win accolades such as an appearance on the first Texas Michelin Guide’s recommended list and a James Beard Award nomination for Emil Oliva in the Best Chef: Texas category. Money quote: “That little house in Southtown has our blood, sweat and tears.