Chef Ivonne Martínez

“The Apprentice Chef”

“I love food, it comforts you, and it can take you back to your childhood or help you reach new heights. I’d do this for free. Food is my life.” Chef Ivonne Martínez may be relatively new to the culinary game, but don’t let her short 14 years of experience fool you - she’s one of the best in Puerto Rico. Chef Martínez studied at Johnson and Wales University in Miami, Florida where she learned under the tutelage of renowned places in Florida such as Miami’s Mandarin Oriental Hotel and Florida’s Hard Rock Hotel learning all aspects of the industry. Coming back to her native Puerto Rico, Chef Martínez then took on roles as a Pastry Chef in San Juan’s Ritz Carlton Hotel and has even taught classes at Interamerican University. She has been the Executive Pastry Chef in Mayagüez’s Laissez-Faire Restaurant and eventually made it to Executive Chef in Aguadilla’s D’Grillade Steakhouse. Chef Martínez personality and talents have also lead her to have recurring guest spots on Puerto Rico local television (WAPA) and is somebody to keep on eye on in the coming future of great Puerto Rican chefs.