By Juan Pablo Sebastián

Character and discipline are two virtues that have defined Silvia Utley García throughout her 41-year career as a waitress at the Azteca Restaurant in Hotel Rosarito.

As part of the fourth edition of the 2025 Gastronomic Awards, CANIRAC presented her with a recognition award honoring her long-standing contribution to the culinary industry.

Behind this award lies a long journey of professional training, admirable perseverance, and a vocation shaped by character and discipline—qualities that allowed her to thrive in a profession that, until a few decades ago, was dominated by men.

Silvia Utley García’s contribution to Rosarito’s culinary scene is clear: a steadfast commitment to service and discipline cultivated over a remarkable career.

Her journey began at the Azteca Restaurant under the management of Hugo Eduardo Torres Chabert, the company that gave her the opportunity to pursue her vocation.

“Since I was a child, I always wanted to be a waitress because I loved serving tables. When my husband and I came to Rosarito, I told him I wanted to work at Hotel Rosarito. I didn’t know Mr. Hugo Torres personally, but my husband worked with him. He said no, because there was a union and many complications. I replied it didn’t matter, I want to work at that hotel.

When we arrived, Mr. Torres was in his office—formerly the downtown command center. I went with his secretary and asked for him. She asked if I had an appointment. Just then I saw Mr. Torres at the door, and he asked: ‘What do you need, young lady?’

‘I’m looking for Mr. Torres,’ I replied.
‘I’m he. How can I help you?’ he said.
‘I’m looking for a job, sir,’ I said.
‘Then come into my office,’ he told me,” Silvia recalled, recounting her first meeting with the man who would become a mentor.

During that conversation, Silvia’s persistence and commitment to her vocation were tested. She insisted on becoming a waitress despite being warned about the challenges of entering a male-dominated profession.

“What position do you want to work in?” he asked.
“I want to be a waitress,” I said.
“You’re stubborn,” he told me.

Initially, she accepted a hostess position for three days a week while looking for waitress work elsewhere. Her first days were difficult, as she struggled to adapt to a workplace dominated by men.

“My first day the waiters made me cry. I endured that Friday. The next day they made me cry again, so I grabbed my bag and told my colleague: ‘I’m leaving. I can’t take this anymore,’” she recalled.

Mr. Torres intervened: “‘Why are you crying? You said you could do this. You can do it.’ He took my bag, brought me to the restaurant, and said, ‘You can do it.’”

Silvia’s dedication and discipline quickly enabled her to stand out in customer service at Azteca. After moving to full-time work, a turning point came: when a union strike threatened operations, Silvia’s honesty and attention to rules earned her the title of captain.

From that moment on, Silvia Utley García cemented a long and distinguished career at Azteca, fueled by her natural passion and the trust Hugo Eduardo Torres Chabert placed in her.

“He gave me advice and taught me to overcome obstacles. I feel very blessed to have arrived here. The years passed, and I stayed because I do what I love—and here I am today, thanks to God,” she said.