Mario Pagán: Culinary Visionary and Pioneer of the “Nueva Mesa Latina” and “Pacífico-Latino” Movements

Chef Mario Pagán is a celebrated ambassador of Puerto Rican cuisine, renowned for his innovative approach to traditional flavors and his dedication to elevating the island’s culinary identity on a global stage. With over two decades of experience, he has crafted a signature style that fuses Latin heritage with modern techniques, resulting in vibrant, forward-thinking dishes. A native of Puerto Rico, Chef Mario’s passion for food began in his childhood, inspired by the Caribbean meals prepared by the women in his family. He shifted paths from architecture to culinary arts, earning his degree from Johnson & Wales University and refining his craft under the guidance of acclaimed chefs, including his mentor Alfredo Ayala, founder of the iconic Chayote Restaurant.

Throughout his career, Chef Mario has opened and operated several acclaimed restaurants that reflect his evolving culinary vision. Among them are Lemongrass Pan-Asian Latino, Laurel Kitchen Art Bar at the Puerto Rico Museum of Art, and his flagship, MARIO PAGÁN. As the Culinary Director at Dorado Beach Resort & Golf Club, he also oversees MELAO and three additional restaurants

In 2023, he debuted CHAYOTE Barrio Kitchen in Winter Park, Florida—his first U.S. restaurant and the foundation of the "Nueva Mesa Latina" movement, which reimagines Latin cuisine through a contemporary lens. In 2025, he launched MĀRO in Puerto Rico, introducing a bold culinary concept that blends Asian fusion with Latin and Caribbean influences.

Beyond the kitchen, Chef Mario is a passionate advocate for sustainability and food education. He champions local farmers and producers and participates in global initiatives through the James Beard Foundation and Chefs Collaborative. A former contestant on Food Network’s “Next Iron Chef” and host of FOX Latino cooking shows, he has also published books and collaborated with global humanitarian efforts, including World Central Kitchen. Through his charity, “Play it Forward with Mario & Friends,” and partnerships with organizations like St. Jude’s and Discover Puerto Rico, Chef Mario continues to inspire through both flavor and purpose, leaving a lasting impact on the culinary world.