Leule Wubeshet
San Juan,PR
Summary
Professional position as an executive chef
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
Work History
Executive Chef
La Isla Fine Dining
San Juan, Puerto Rico
07.2018 - Current
- Developed menus featuring creative interpretations of traditional Puerto Rican dishes like Mofongo, Pernil, and Tostones, leading to a 35% increase in repeat customer visits and reviews from local food critics
- Maintained strict budgets by analyzing sales data over the years, reducing food costs by 22%, and collaborated with Caribbean Produce Exchange Inc
- To source fresh, high-quality ingredients while maintaining cost and quality
- Implemented food safety and cleanliness protocols which included conducting team training on keeping proper hygiene inside the kitchen.
Sous Chef
Cielo Azul Restaurant
Ponce, Puerto Rico
06.2015 - 06.2018
- Assisted the Executive Chef in refining the menu, focusing on creating never-seen dishes such as Caribbean ceviche and Plantain empanadas using modern cooking techniques
- Ensured efficiency during shortages of key ingredients, by effectively communicating with both kitchen staff and front-of-house team members to offer alternative dishes that met the standards
- Reduced scheduling conflicts and improved kitchen efficiency by aligning staff availability and cross-training team members to help during peak times.
Education
Bachelor of Caribbean Culinary Art -
The University of The West Indies, School of Culinary Arts
Kingston, Jamaica04-2014
Skills
- Menu development - Designing creative and brand-new Caribbean menus
- Culinary expert - Expertise in preparing ethnic Puerto Rican dishes
- Team leader - Experienced in leading and training aspiring chefs
Honorsandawards
- Winner of Hell’s Kitchen – Season 17 (All-Stars), 2017, Awarded 1st place in Hell’s Kitchen by Gordon Ramsay for exceptional culinary expertise, leadership, and performance under intense competition.
- Michelin Star Recognition, 2019-2023, Awarded as part of the culinary team at La Isla Fine Dining.
- Sustainability Leadership Award, 2021, Caribbean Food & Beverage Expo.
Activities
- Guest Chef Appearances, Featured at culinary events and food festivals such as the San Juan Culinary Fest and Taste of the Caribbean.
- Workshop Instructor, Led advanced cooking workshops on kitchen management for upcoming chefs at The Culinary Institute of America.
Timeline
Executive Chef
La Isla Fine Dining
07.2018 - Current
Sous Chef
Cielo Azul Restaurant
06.2015 - 06.2018
Bachelor of Caribbean Culinary Art -
The University of The West Indies, School of Culinary Arts