Chef Carol Reyes: Blending Tradition and Innovation in Puerto Rican Gastronomy

Chef Carol Reyes is serving up Boricua flavors with an international modern twist!

Fueled by her passion for cooking from an early age and her formal culinary training after high school, Chef Carol Reyes began her journey around Puerto Rico's most renowned kitchens. This experience shaped her creative style, focusing on elevating each dish's main ingredients to highlight their authentic flavors. Now leading the kitchen of the popular restaurant Bóveda in Hato Rey, San Juan, Reyes’s culinary philosophy is all about striking a perfect balance between tradition and innovation—honoring classic Boricua recipes while incorporating contemporary techniques.

Dig into her flavorful story, discover the importance of local ingredients and the farm-to-table movement in her creations, and get her recommendations for truly savoring the essence of our beautiful Island.

Boveda dish. — Find fresh Puerto Rican ingredients elevated to a fine dining experience at Bóveda.

Exploring Culinary Paths: Share your journey of becoming a chef in Puerto Rico.

What sparked your passion for cooking?

Throughout my professional journey, I have had the opportunity to be part of renowned kitchens on the Island, such as Bodegas Compostela and the 1919 restaurant at the Condado Vanderbilt Hotel, where I served as Chef de Cuisine. Now, I am taking on a new challenge by leading the kitchen at Bóveda restaurant in the Popular Center in Hato Rey, San Juan.

My passion for cooking began in my maternal grandmother's kitchen, where the aromas and her dedication inspired me from a young age. This motivation led me to study culinary arts after high school. Additionally, I have found inspiration in the mentors who have accompanied me throughout my career, allowing me to discover and develop my own creative style in the kitchen.

Culinary Style and Philosophy

How do you define your approach to cooking?

My cooking is simple, focused on highlighting the main ingredients to preserve the essence of the dish.

Can you explain your culinary philosophy?

My philosophy is based on maintaining the classics, respecting their authenticity while blending them with modern techniques. My art is to create an inspiring experience, where each bite is a delight for the senses. I am driven by the idea that every dish I prepare is something I would love to enjoy myself.

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Chef Carol Reyes cooking. — Chef Carol Reyes focuses on the details that make every bite unforgettable.

Influence of Puerto Rican Culture

In what ways do Puerto Rico's culture and locales shape your culinary creations?

My cuisine is deeply influenced by local ingredients, such as incorporating morcilla (blood sausage) and locally raised cochinillo (suckling pig). Although it’s a Spanish dish, it reflects our cultural love for lechón (roasted pork). I also use fresh, local fish like carrucho (conch) from the western region, supporting local agriculture and producers who continue to drive Puerto Rico's farm-to-table movement.

How do you strike a balance between traditional methods and innovative practices in your kitchen?

What truly sets me apart is my ability to balance different culinary techniques. For example, I combine the traditional method of confit with the precision of sous-vide in several of my dishes. This fusion not only enhances the flavors but also creates an exceptional harmony in every bite.

Must-Try Dishes

What is one signature dish that every visitor should experience at your restaurant or through your culinary services?

Ricotta gnocchi with duck confit. I make the gnocchi in-house, ensuring each piece is light and delicate. The duck is carefully confited to perfection. In this dish, I bring out the full essence of the duck: I dehydrate and toast the skin for a perfect crunch, and I use the bones to craft a rich jus that serves as the base for the sauce, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that truly elevates the dish.

Boveda Dining Area — Bóveda blends delicious cuisine with a striking ambiance.

Puerto Rican Cuisine Essentials

From your perspective, which dish quintessentially represents Puerto Rican cuisine and why?

Pasteles made with masa (mash made with plantain, green banana, taro, and pumpkin) and filled with pork always evoke deep nostalgia in me. They transport me back to my childhood when my family would gather in the kitchen during the holiday season, faithfully following the tradition my grandmother instilled in us. As a chef, this dish is much more than just a recipe; it is a culinary heritage that unites families and transcends generations. It is not just a feast of flavors but a symbol of family unity and a tribute to the rich and diverse Puerto Rican cuisine.

Visitor's First Bite

What dish would you recommend to someone new to Puerto Rican cuisine?

Try the alcapurrias stuffed with pork or even corned beef. Be adventurous and explore all the different variations.

First-Time Diner Tips

Do you have any advice for individuals dining in Puerto Rico for the first time?

When coming to Puerto Rico, no diets are allowed! As a chef, I encourage you to immerse yourself fully in the local experience. Explore the vibrant chinchorros and savor the authentic flavors that define our culture—like mofongo, bacalaítos (cod fritter), alcapurrias, arroz con gandules (rice with pigeon peas) and lechón a la vara (slow roasted pork on a spit). Taste everything that sets us apart, be bold, and let your palate dance with the rhythm of our Island.

Local Dining Favorites

Could you share a few of your favorite local eateries?

I highly recommend visiting the Malecón of Naguabo. You'll enjoy stunning ocean views from every corner, and the fresh seafood is simply unbeatable.

Discover the town of Naguabo

A measured pour of dark rum from Ron del Barrilito — Try a locally made rum with your meal.

Hometown Pride

Which municipality in Puerto Rico do you hail from?

Bayamón!

What do you cherish most about your hometown?

Bayamón blends tradition with modern flair, offering everything from the historic Ron Barrilito distillery to the interactive science-theme park the Parque de las Ciencias. Explore the town’s vibrant public art and murals and enjoy a variety of trendy food trucks like Sato Fussion Nikkei, serving Japanese-Peruvian fusion, along with other fresh, Caribbean-inspired dishes. Bayamón captures the essence of Puerto Rico through its warm people, dynamic food scene, and rich cultural blend.

Local Exploration Recommendations

Where should visitors go, or what activities should they experience when visiting your town?

My favorite spots are Parque de las Ciencias, Ron Barrilito Distillery; cheering on Los Vaqueros, our local basketball team. Supporting our athletes is a great way to soak up the local spirit. Trust me, these experiences will give you a true taste of what makes Bayamón special.

More Things to do in Bayamón