Chef Rene Marichal

With more than 20 years of culinary and business experience, Puerto Rican Chef René Marichal combines his passion for cooking with a strong academic background in Industrial / Organizational Psychology. His trajectory as a sport fisherman for over two decades has shaped his deep respect for fresh, local ingredients and sustainable practices.

He began his career with The Fresh Grill (2007-2013), later developed Salt Gastrobar (2013), and in 2014 co-founded Avocado, a restaurant that redefined modern Puerto Rican cuisine by blending traditional and innovative techniques.

In 2016, he launched Wok It at Lote 23, followed by Argento (2017), and in 2019 co-founded Bacoa Finca + Fogón, recognized as one of the most emblematic restaurants of Puerto Rico's farm-to-table movement. In 2024, he opened Aldeana, a fine-dining space dedicated to private culinary experiences and events.

Beyond his restaurants, he is co-founder of Sociedad Criolla alongside Chef Xavier Pacheco, a project dedicated to rescuing and preserving Puerto Rican open-fire cooking traditions. He also collaborates with academic institutions, offering workshops that integrate culinary education, sustainability, and cultural heritage, as well as philanthropic initiatives.

He is part of Raíces Compartidas, a platform that honors Puerto Rican and global culinary roots, fosters cultural exchange, and promotes gastronomic tourism.

Current Roles

• Chef / Co-owner - Bacoa Finca + Fogón (farm-to-table, Juncos)
• Chef / Co-owner - Aldeana (fine dining, weddings, and private culinary experiences)
• Chef / Owner - Argento & Argento Patio Bar (2) (Argentinian cuisine, cocktails, and wines)
• Co-owner - Tres Senderos Spirits (wines and spirits)
• In development - New gastronomic projects

Awards, Recognitions, and International Participation

• Build to Last by René Redzepi (2025) - Selected participating chef
• Culinary Institute of America (CIA), Napa Valley (2024) - Guest chef at the Global Plant-Forward Culinary Summit
• FITUR 2025 (Madrid) - Representing Puerto Rico with Bacoa Finca + Fogón and Discover Puerto Rico
• IBERIA 2024 (Madrid) - Representing Puerto Rico with Puerto Rico Tourism Company
• Featured in international media including The New York Times, BBC Mundo Travel, and NBC News
• Winner of multiple sport-fishing championships in Puerto Rico and internationally
• Founder and chef of Avocado, Wok It, Argento, Bacoa, and Aldeana
• Co-founder of Sociedad Criolla
• Collaborator with educational institutions, culinary workshops, and movements supporting local products
• Among other recognitions