Arizona Republic Highlights the Partnership Behind COURSE

We’re honored to be featured in The Arizona Republic’s recent article highlighting the chefs helping shape the future of dining in metro Phoenix.

While many accolades naturally focus on Executive Chef Cory Oppold, this feature shines a spotlight on someone who has been instrumental in the success of COURSE since day one: Sous Chef Luis Soto.

Written by Bahar Anooshahr, the article explores Luis’s culinary journey from Sonora, Mexico, to some of Arizona’s most respected kitchens, and the mentorship, friendship, and professional partnership that ultimately led him to COURSE.

The story traces Luis’s introduction to Chef Cory while attending culinary school, where Cory’s passion for food and teaching left a lasting impression. Years later, after gaining experience at respected properties including Four Seasons and Elements, Luis reunited with Cory at Atlas Bistro. Within months, he had earned a promotion to sous chef and quickly became one of Cory’s most trusted collaborators.

When Chef Cory eventually realized his dream of opening COURSE, Luis was there from the beginning.

The article highlights nearly a decade of partnership between the two chefs, built on mutual respect, shared creativity, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. It’s a relationship that continues to influence every menu, service, and guest experience at COURSE.

While guests often see the finished plate, features like this provide a glimpse into the people behind the scenes who make the experience possible. Luis’s leadership, consistency, work ethic, and culinary talent have played an enormous role in shaping what COURSE has become.

We’re grateful to Bahar Anooshahr and The Arizona Republic for recognizing Luis and sharing his story.

Congratulations, Luis. This recognition is incredibly well deserved, and we’re proud to have you helping lead the kitchen at COURSE every day.