Meet the Talent

Born and raised in Añasco, Puerto Rico, Chef Abel Mendoza has built an impressive culinary career that spans the globe. A graduate of the prestigious Culinary Institute of America (CIA), he honed his craft in some of the world's most renowned kitchens. His journey began at Bouley in New York City before taking him to Boulevard in San Francisco, Central in Lima, Ormeggio at The Spit in Sydney, and Paco Morales in Valencia.

For the past 6.5 years, Chef Mendoza has been the Chef and Partner at Estela in Rincón, Puerto Rico, where he continues to push the boundaries of contemporary cuisine while celebrating local ingredients and flavors. His dedication and innovation have earned him multiple accolades, including being a 2022 James Beard Award Best Chef: South Semi-Finalist and receiving the Distinguished Restaurants of North America (DIRONA) Award in both 2024 and 2025. His restaurant has also been recognized as one of the Best Restaurants in Puerto Rico by La Mafia PR in 2024.

With a passion for excellence and a deep respect for culinary tradition, Chef Mendoza remains a driving force in Puerto Rico's evolving food scene.