Oscar Padilla is the Founder and Culinary Director of Balam Culinary Collective. Born in Los Angeles and deeply rooted in Mexican culinary traditions, his cooking is inspired by family, heritage, and bold flavors learned from his grandmother’s kitchen. Trained in Mexico City and shaped by experience in world-class restaurants, Oscar has worked internationally alongside renowned chefs, opening concepts and leading culinary teams across the globe. As a Food Network Chopped champion, his vision, creativity, and humble kitchen philosophy continue to drive the identity and success of the brand.
Who we are
Norma Padilla is the Co-Founder and Director of Finance at Balam Culinary Collective. With a strong background in accounting and business administration, she has been a key force behind the development and successful operation of concepts such as Gaucho Parrilla and Chulo Taco at Freedom Street Social Food Hall. Her leadership, strategic vision, and attention to detail make her the financial and operational backbone of the company, driving sustained growth and long-term success.
Our team is made up of passionate local professionals driven by a love for hospitality and genuine service. We take pride in serving great food and creating memorable experiences for friends, neighbors, and every guest who walks through our doors.
Joe Manzanares is the Business Development Director at Balam Culinary Collective. With over 35 years of experience in real estate, commercial development, and hospitality projects, he leads the strategic growth and expansion of chef-driven concepts, including BuffHous in Boulder. His background spans architectural planning, top-tier real estate brokerage, mortgage finance, and restaurant development, allowing him to structure deals, secure prime locations, and oversee projects from concept through opening. Joe’s disciplined, investor-focused approach ensures strong fundamentals, operational efficiency, and long-term success for each venture.
LOT ONE was created as a gathering place for friends, family, and neighbors in the heart of the Village of Five Parks. Founded by longtime neighbors Jaime Miles and Josh Timon, the concept was born from a shared love of food, hospitality, and community. Inspired by family traditions, global flavors, and a passion for bringing people together, LOT ONE offers a welcoming space to eat, celebrate, and connect. With a menu driven by fresh, seasonal ingredients—including produce grown in its rooftop greenhouse—and a strong commitment to local sourcing, LOT ONE is dedicated to keeping the neighborhood vibrant, connected, and coming back for more.
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