In Puerto Rico, food isn't just a meal — it's a full-sensory expression of culture, heritage, and creativity.
Few embody that spirit as powerfully as Chef Francis Guzmán of Vianda, a beloved San Juan dinning spot known for its blend of global cuisine and diverse techniques. Driven by a lifelong passion for restaurants and inspired by the richness of his homeland, Guzmán fuses international methods with locally sourced, seasonal ingredients to craft dishes that honor Puerto Rican tradition while embracing innovation. As a four-time James Beard Awards semifinalist — recognized in 2022 and 2023 for Best Chef: South, in 2024 for Best Chef, and in 2025 in the prestigious Outstanding Chef category presented by Hilton — Guzmán stands among the top culinary talents in Puerto Rico and the United States. At Vianda, his transformative cuisine speaks the language of the Island: vibrant, passionate, and ever evolving. Whether reimagining a classic or crafting a bold new signature dish, every plate is an invitation to discover our authentic Boricua flavor.
Guzmán shares his story, the spark behind his culinary passion, and a few of his favorite local spots—inviting you to discover the Island one mouthwatering plate at a time.
Vianda is fully committed to quality and local ingredients, where expertise shines through in every bite.
Vianda's Chef Francis Guzmán.
Exploring Culinary Paths: Share your journey of becoming a chef in Puerto Rico.
What sparked your passion for cooking?
I always knew I wanted to own and operate my own establishment. Restaurants are more than places to eat —they have the power to entertain, nurture, and offer a sense of escape. A well-run space can transport you, even for just a few hours, and that magic drew me in from the beginning.
Culinary Style and Philosophy
How do you define your approach to cooking? Can you explain your culinary philosophy?
My approach to cooking is constantly evolving, and my north is always what our local farmers have in store at the moment. The kitchen at Vianda is driven by creativity and the constant curiosity of exploring something new. We seek inspiration from global cuisines and the infinite cooking techniques that exist.
Vianda's restaurant dishes.
Influence of Puerto Rican Culture
In what ways do Puerto Rico's culture and locales shape your culinary creations? How do you strike a balance between traditional methods and innovative practices in your kitchen?
I often draw inspiration from traditional dishes and add a thoughtful twist using modern techniques. The key is respecting the roots while exploring new possibilities. By sourcing the best local and seasonal ingredients, we keep our food honest and reflective of the Island's flavors.
Vianda's restaurant.
Must-Try Dishes
What is one signature dish that every visitor should experience at your restaurant or through your culinary services?
One dish everyone should try is the:
Arroz mamposteao with agroecological red beans del Josco Bravo, quinoa piononos, and galangal aioli. It showcases our land, our harvest, and how we can turn the everyday into something extraordinary.
Puerto Rican Cuisine Essentials
What is one signature dish that every visitor should experience at your restaurant or through your culinary services?
Our menu is always evolving, but one dish that’s become a staple is our lasaña de calabaza (pumpkin lasagna). It's made with long-cooked pumpkin, Tuscan kale, goat cheese, pumpkin seeds, and sage pesto.
From your perspective, which dish quintessentially represents Puerto Rican cuisine and why?
For me, nothing beats a well-executed bistec encebollado (steak with onions) with rice and beans, tostones, and avocado. It’s a dish rooted in nostalgia, but when prepared with care and quality ingredients, it can stand shoulder to shoulder with any dish. It’s simple, soulful, and undeniably Puerto Rican.
What dish would you recommend to someone new to Puerto Rican cuisine?
I’d recommend starting with a fried alcapurria, but there’s a catch: it has to be made to order and topped with pique, our Puerto Rican hot sauce. When done right, it’s crispy, savory, and packed with flavor.
Located in the San Juan neighborhood of Santurce, Vianda serves a small, seasonal, rotating menu anchored by local ingredients and products.
First-Time Diner Tips
Do you have any advice for individuals dining in Puerto Rico for the first time?
My advice for first-time diners in Puerto Rico is to steer clear of tourist traps —there are plenty. Instead, seek out spots where the owner is also the chef. You can’t go wrong with that.
Local Dining Favorites
Could you share a few of your favorite local eateries?
Some of my favorite local spots include Cocina al Fondo, Alcapurria Quemá, and El Mercado de Rafael Hernández—all known for their honest, soulful takes on Puerto Rican food. I’m also excited by the chefs across the Island who are creating globally inspired dishes with local ingredients. Places like Verde Mesa, Orujo, Sato Fino, Bóveda, La Faena, and Levant are doing incredible work, and the list keeps growing.
Rapid Fire Questions
Get to know his answers!
Mofongo with carne guisada (braised beef).
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Peña Blanca in Aguadilla.
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La Santurcina
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I love reggae, and it hits differently in the Caribbean. I love Pachyman.
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Ketchup should only be placed on a pastel if it’s poorly made. Otherwise, a good pastel would be ruined by ketchup.
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My Puerto Rican road trip leads to highway 413, aka the road to happiness —Rincón, Puerto Rico.
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