MEET THE CHEF: Edimar Vazquez of Marmalade Restaurant in San Juan, Puerto Rico
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We sat down with Executive Chef Edimar Vazquez of Marmalade Restaurant, praised as “the best restaurant in Puerto Rico” in Old San Juan. Marmalade stands out for its high-standards, superb quality, exceptional service, and of course, unique culinary offerings.
Marmalade Restaurant in San Juan, Puerto Rico
The white bean soup is frequently singled out as a “must-have” dish, indicative of the eatery's attention to detail and commitment to flavor. The vibrant selectivity of its chef-driven menu, combined with a beautiful, eclectic decor, ensures Marmalade always offers a thorough, unforgettable dining experience.
Where did you grow up, and where have you traveled to that has helped inspire and shape your cooking philosophy?
I’m Puerto Rican and aside from experiencing the four corners of my island, cultural and culinary visits to New York City and Paris always provoke thoughts and inspirations.
Marmalade Restaurant in San Juan, Puerto Rico
Tell our readers an interesting fact or two about yourself that reflects your cooking style?
As Puerto Ricans we often prefer stronger, bolder flavors. I often try to reproduce those childhood memories while using more worldly influences.
Tell us about your absolute favorite food and why readers should try it if they haven’t already.
Bacalaitos, our classic salted fish fritters, although very traditional and simple will tell you everything you need to know about the chef that made them. You will find them at the beach, at fiestas, celebrations, and also in the finest restaurants. In New York City it is the “Pizza Slice,” in Paris it is the pomme purée or mashed potatoes. It is the people’s food, when done right, there is nothing better.
Marmalade Restaurant in San Juan, Puerto Rico
What are three ingredients that you simply couldn’t live without?
Fresh coconut and limes, as well as suckling pig.
We love the art behind plating. What do you love about designing the perfect dish?
Plating food is an art form like a jazz band. You can see and experience the individual components or instruments but when they are consumed in unison they take another dimension of color, texture and flavor.
Marmalade Restaurant in San Juan, Puerto Rico
Tell us about one of the most creative dishes you’ve cooked up?
Black Truffle Ice Cream. Gently infusing fresh truffles into slightly sweetened and churned ice cream finishes with roasted hazelnut and truffle honey. We call it the “Millionaire’s Ice Cream.”
What is one of your greatest accomplishments or awards you've earned?
My lifelong commitment to cooking and hospitality began like most as a dishwasher and 18 years later has blessed me with leading one of the best restaurants in the Caribbean. In 2023-2024 we were voted one of the “Top 100 Restaurants in the USA” by OpenTable and their 1.2 million users.
What are some of the latest trends you’re seeing in top restaurants across the globe?
Strong fundamental understanding of nutrition and wellness. Using food and its natural properties to heal the body.
What’s your favorite cocktail or beverage of choice?
Our brilliant mixology team at Marmalade led by Jesus, Christian and Juan Carlos are always pushing boundaries with playful, imaginative and flavorful drinks. My favorite is “SJU to MEX” — which is made with Mexican gin infused with local cilantro, Poblano Chile liqueur, and Don Luis organic honey with fresh-squeezed lime juice.
Marmalade Restaurant in San Juan, Puerto Rico
What do you love about being the Executive Chef of Marmalade Restaurant in San Juan, Puerto Rico?
I love serving my guests and coworkers alike. I’m so grateful to have this platform of creativity and help develop myself and others to their greatest potential in this lifetime.
Note: This information was accurate when this article was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
