By: Lennard James

In a world where food often brings people together, Chef Marco Antonio Navarro has discovered a way to use his passion for cooking to connect culture, community, and creativity. Known to many as the heart behind the popular YouTube cooking channel “Cooking with Papi,” Chef Marco brings more than just flavor to the table—he brings a story rich in heritage, family, and love.

Born and raised in Denver, Colorado, Chef Marco’s love for food seems to have been sparked early on by the lively gatherings of his large family. With 122 first cousins, every weekend often felt like a celebration—filled with birthdays, weddings, and milestone moments. Those events weren’t just social; they also served as learning experiences. He recalls spending hours in the kitchen helping his mother and grandmother prepare dishes for dozens, sometimes hundreds. It was here that the seeds of his culinary future may have been planted.

At 21, Chef Marco pursued formal training at culinary school in downtown Denver, fueled by the same passion he discovered as a child. With deep familial roots in Mexico—his grandparents hailing from Chihuahua and Jalisco on his father’s side, and a lineage on his mother’s side that has lived in New Mexico since before 1848—Marco seems to carry generations of culture in his hands every time he picks up a knife or stirs a pot.

His love for food runs parallel to his love for family. As a proud father of twins Cali and Cruz, Chef Marco relocated to Memphis to be close to them and strive to be the hands-on father he aspired to be. Living in Memphis has become more than just a parental decision—it’s what feels like a full-circle moment that bridges his family’s legacy with a new chapter of purpose.

His channel, Cooking with Papi, is an extension of his personality and passion. With the help of Memphis-based T2K Productionz, he has created a show that aims to be as entertaining as it is educational. Each episode features Chef Marco collaborating with a diverse range of local talent, including fellow chefs, entertainers, small business owners, and news anchors. These collaborations not only showcase delicious food but also highlight the talents and stories of Memphis’s thriving community. Whether teaching cooking techniques, sharing a secret ingredient, or simply laughing with his guests, the heart of the show often revolves around connection.

Chef Marco’s style could best be described as Latin Fusion, a creative blend of the bold flavors he grew up with, merged seamlessly with influences from the Caribbean, Italian, Asian, and Cajun/Creole cuisines. His attention to detail, artistic eye, and deep cultural appreciation often shine through in every dish he creates. His goal is simple: to make food that not only looks beautiful but hopefully touches the soul.

Beyond the kitchen and screen, Chef Marco is deeply involved in community service. He is a proud member of the Community Service Leaders of America, an organization committed to supporting Memphis’s underserved and unhoused communities. He has helped organize large-scale events that provide hot meals, live music, and even haircuts to those in need—reflecting his belief that everyone deserves dignity, joy, and a good plate of food.

Chef Marco often says that food is love and that love should be shared. It’s that belief that continues to drive him as he builds a brand grounded in authenticity, compassion, and flavor. His goal is not just to entertain or feed people but to try to uplift them—one meal, one video, one community event at a time.

For those looking to be inspired, educated, or simply well-fed, Chef Marco invites you into his kitchen through Cooking with Papi. You can follow his journey on YouTube (@CookingwPapi), Instagram (@CookingwPapi), TikTok (@CookingWitPapi), and Facebook (CookingwPapi). For booking and business inquiries, reach out at cookingwitpapi@gmail.com.

As Cesar Chavez once said, “If you really want to make a friend, go to someone’s house and eat with him… The people who give you their food give you their heart.” Chef Marco appears to live by this quote, and through every dish, he seeks to open his heart to the world.

Published by Jeremy S.