Maria Mercedes is a name synonymous with passion, resilience, and exceptional culinary talent. Born in San Juan, Puerto Rico, to Dominican parents who immigrated in the 1970s, Maria Mercedes’s culinary roots run deep. Her family’s history in the food industry, from her grandmother’s food stall in the Dominican Republic to her parents’ hot dog cart, laid the foundation for her lifelong dedication to cooking. By the age of eight, Maria Mercedes was already learning the fundamentals in the kitchen, a necessity that blossomed into a genuine love for the culinary arts.
From Puerto Rico to Culinary Heights in NYC
After high school, Maria Mercedes embarked on a transformative journey to New York City, where she was captivated by the city’s diverse and vibrant food scene. Recognizing her natural talent and driven by a newfound passion, Maria Mercedes enrolled in the prestigious French Culinary Institute (now the Institute of Culinary Education). While honing her skills at culinary school, Maria Mercedes simultaneously gained invaluable practical experience working in some of NYC’s most acclaimed restaurants, including The Modern and Pastis. These experiences solidified her expertise and broadened her culinary horizons, setting the stage for her future success.
Returning to Roots and Overcoming Challenges
Family called Maria Mercedes back to Puerto Rico when her son received a diagnosis of severe autism. Prioritizing her family, she returned home and, alongside her brother, launched the Underground Dining Club, a venture that quickly evolved into Gallo Negro, a restaurant owned by her brother. Gallo Negro garnered significant acclaim and success for many years, becoming a celebrated culinary destination. However, like many businesses in Puerto Rico, Gallo Negro faced immense challenges in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria, ultimately leading to its closure in December 2020. Despite this setback, Maria Mercedes’s spirit and determination remained unbroken.
Accolades and Current Endeavors
Maria Mercedes’s culinary excellence has not gone unnoticed. In 2019, she achieved a significant milestone, becoming the first Puerto Rican woman to be nominated as a semi-finalist for the James Beard Award for “Best Chef: South.” This prestigious nomination recognized her outstanding contributions to the culinary world and her innovative approach to cooking. Currently, Maria Mercedes is leveraging her extensive experience through consulting, pop-up events, and private chef engagements. She has also taken on the role of Executive Chef at Ember, a renowned woodfire restaurant in Austin, Texas. At Ember, Maria Mercedes continues to showcase her culinary prowess and passion, further cementing her reputation as a leading chef in the industry. Her journey, marked by dedication and resilience, exemplifies the inspiring story of Chef Maria Mercedes.
