Chef Raul Correa

With more than 25 years of experience in hospitality, restaurants, and catering, Puerto Rican Chef Raul Correa Soto has built a career marked by leadership, creativity, and international recognition. He began his career in 1995 at the San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino, and later served as Executive Chef at other prestigious properties, including the legendary Normandie Hotel.

In 2012 he launched Zest, at the San Juan Water Beach Club Hotel, acclaimed for its modern Puerto Rican cuisine with global influences. Chef Correa is part of Raices Compartidas, a platform that honors the culinary roots of Puerto Rico and the world, boosts cultural exchange, and promotes gastronomic tourism.

Current Roles

- Chef / Co-owner - Bacoa Finca + Fogon (farm-to-table concept, Juncos)
- Chef / Co-owner - Aldeana (culinary experiences and fine dining)
- Chef / Owner - Tia Dora (Middle East street cuisine, vegan options, cocktails, and wines)
- Co-owner - Tres Senderos Spirits (wines and spirits)

Committed to sustainability and supporting local farmers, Chef Correa also collaborates with philanthropic causes such as Ser de Puerto Rico and Hogar Teresa Toda.

Awards, Recognitions and International Presence

- Guest at Best Dressed Plates - Barbados (2026) - International Guest Chef representing Puerto Rico and Bacoa
- James Beard Foundation (2024) - Selected as one of the Taste Twenty Chefs and invited to the Taste America Culinary Series
- Culinary Institute of America (CIA), Napa Valley (2024) - Guest Chef and Instructor at the Global Plant-Forward Culinary Summit
- FITUR 2025 (Madrid) - Representing Puerto Rico with Bacoa Finca + Fogon and Discover Puerto Rico
- Restaurateur of the Year (2016) - Puerto Rico Hotel & Tourism Association (PRHTA)
- Recognized in Where Chefs Eat: A Guide to Chefs' Favorite Restaurants (Phaidon Press, 2015)
- Chair of the Restaurant Committee - PRHTA (2015)
- Nominated for The People's Best New Chef (El Vocero / Gastronomico, 2014)
- Manager of the Year (Restaurant Category) - PRHTA (2014)
- Taste of the Caribbean 2014 - Silver Medal (Chef of the Year), Gold Medal (Best Culinary Team), Captain of the Puerto Rico Culinary Team
- Top Chef of Puerto Rico - FoodiesPR.com (2014)
- Nominee - FOOD & WINE Magazine "People's Best New Chef" (2013)
- Champion - Cattlemen's Chef Challenge (2008)