Photo via MAD Social
Have you seen the Superman Rainbow Gelato Sandwich? This rainbow ice cream dynamo smashed between two churro waffles has created a wave of its own on social channels, making it the must-try dessert in Chicagoland. And who are we to thank for this photogenic creation? Executive Chef Mariela Bolaños of MAD Social {1140 West Madison Street, Chicago; 312.243.2097}. Known to tinker in the kitchen, Bolaños has long been unleashing her foodie creations on the Chicago scene.
Since settling in at MAD Social, she has crafted globally inspired eats and American classics with a twist, offering Barbecue Pork Empanadas and drool-worthy Chicken and Churro Waffles. We chatted with Bolaños recently about her foodie upbringing, navigating the Chicago scene as a female chef, and her Instagram-famous creations.
Photo via MAD Social
DiningOut: I understand you became passionate about cooking at a young age, due in large part to your visits to Mexico. Can you share some of that inspiration with us?
Maria Bolaños: My parents cooked a lot when I was young, so I’ve always been around food. My dad always sought cuisine outside of the box, so I would have a chance to try all different types of ingredients from around the world. My mom—wearing many hats in the family—cooked and baked for us, but also had a Mexican folkloric dance group and owned a travel agency, so we’ve been making trips down to Mexico since I was a baby. We would dine at huge world-class buffets, but also made trips into town to the local mercados. I appreciate that I got to experience the best of both worlds.
Was there an “aha” moment that motivated you to pursue cooking as a career?
It’s cheesy, but I saw a commercial for the Art Institute! I toured the school, saw all the students in their classrooms, and instantly knew that it was what I wanted to do.
Photo via MAD Social
After extensive experiences at a number of Chicago institutions—including White Lodging Services, Landry’s, and Bar Siena—what was it that drew you to MAD Social?
Nowadays, a lot of restaurants don’t give you the freedom to be creative across the board. I get bored very quickly working on the same items every day. I love that I get to bring in new ingredients often and test recipes until I perfect them, so they can go on the menu. MAD Social gives me the chance to shine and people seem to be liking it.
How did you approach the menu?
I wanted to introduce fun, comforting dishes with a twist. I’m constantly changing the menu, showcasing things like Chicken and Waffles and, most recently, homemade gelato. I want people to come back and see new items popping up on the menu.
Photo via MAD Social
Speaking of gelato, you’ve gotten a lot of buzz about your seriously stacked desserts, including the famed Superman. What inspired these creations?
The Superman was inspired by Gina [the owner] and I sitting in a meeting and me throwing out the idea. Both of us remembered the ice cream from our childhood and said, “Hey, let’s try it and see how it goes!” A few days later, I tried to replicate it and had to use six different flavors. It was amazing on the first try.
The kind of success you’re enjoying is inspiring, and no doubt took a lot of time and effort. What has it been like navigating the Chicago food scene as a female chef?
Everywhere that I have been, I’ve really only worked with male chefs. Most of the cooks are men as well, and they usually expect just the basics from us. When the time comes to throw down and jump on the line, though, their jaws drop. They would tell me, “You are a chingona (badass)!” I don’t mind that—I like to blow them away.
Photo via MAD Social
Any advice for female chefs looking to break into the dining scene?
When I was young, I was very shy and I would rarely speak to people. I just kept to myself. Confidence is key. Now, working as a mentor and training chefs one-on-one, I try to push my staff to be confident—especially females.
Moving forward, how do you think the Chicago dining scene will continue to evolve?
The small plates and sharing trend is blowing up. We do it here at MAD Social and everyone loves it! Most people are looking for sustainable and local products, as well as healthy and natural ingredients. I think people want to go somewhere where they can eat freely, have a nice time with friends and family, and relax. They want an experience that isn’t expensive and doesn’t require formal attire.
Interview by Morgan Carter
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