From the hallways of Dallas’ Thomas Jefferson High School emerged a Chef. Manuel Vera, Chef Partner at Truluck’s Uptown, developed his craft in his mother Julia’s kitchen from the age of seven. The culinary calling led him to Truluck’s, a mere eight miles south of “TJ,” where he signed on as a prep cook. “Dallas runs deep in my blood, and is a big part of who I am,” says Chef Manny. “I am blessed to do what I love, in a city that I love.” Fast forward through an 18-year tenure at Truluck’s Uptown, and you’ll find Chef Manny at the helm of all things culinary, and a partner in the organization. “The freshest seafood, prepared in innovative ways. Crab from around the world you can’t find anywhere else in Dallas. And oh my, what beautiful steaks. I am thrilled to bring all of this to my hometown of Dallas,” says Chef Manny.