By Helen Mitternight / Images by Paul Cheney

You can order Diego’s Empanadas from his website, but order early!

Editor's Note: Charleston is such a foodie town that food and beverage superstars are hiding in plain sight, out of the James Beard limelight, but still very much creating and serving amazing food and drinks. This series profiles Charleston’s “Hidden F&Bs.”

He just wanted a taste of home — those flaky, mouthwatering empanadas he knew from Buenos Aires. But when friends tasted Diego Funes’ empanadas, they wanted more, and soon it was a business. You can orderDiego’s Empanadas from his website,but order early! He’s already making 500-700 a week!

Diego’s take

Favorite kitchen tool or gadget

I have a whole list! Blender, scales…I always like to have the right tool for the job!

In my refrigerator (three things)

Kefir, eggs, cheese. I love Provolone and I’ll grill thick slices.

In my pantry (three things)

Flour for sure, granola, pasta.

Comfort food

I make a bowl of grits or polenta with milk and a bouillon cube, topped with Bolognese sauce and a slice of bread on the side. That’s my comfort food.

Favorite smell

Onions being cooked slowly on the stovetop.

Favorite drink

Water.

Number of hours you work a week

I work 24 hours a day!

Most underrated ingredient

Ground nutmeg.

Favorite meal to cook at home

I am from Argentina, so steak is a must in my house. I’m always grilling in my backyard.

Best advice a mentor gave you

In Argentina, chef Guillermo Calabrese told me to do what I do with love, passion and consistency. I think those are the ingredients for success in life.

Hear my conversation with Funes during this month's episode of theHidden F&B podcastpresented byCharleston Grit!And find out who's hiding beyond the Holy City on national episodes athelenmitternight.com.