Chef Julio Lazzarini, a Puerto Rico native and Culinary Institute of America graduate, is known for his signature “medilatino” style—a flavorful fusion of Mediterranean and Latin influences.

His culinary passport includes elite kitchens such as OLA Miami under Chef Douglas Rodriguez, Four Seasons Hotels, and the historic Dilworthtown Inn. He was chef/owner of the acclaimed Orillas Tapas Bar and Zagat-rated Vinoteca 902, as well as RED FIN Crudo + Kitchen, awarded Best New Restaurant and Best Chef in America. Julio has served as Executive Sous Chef at the prestigious Newport Mansions Food & Wine Festival and has cooked for dignitaries including President Bill Clinton, VP Joe Biden, and the Dalai Lama. He’s also been featured on Chopped, Beat Bobby Flay, and as a judge on The Great Food Truck Race. His global reach includes marquee events such as Saborea Puerto Rico, BVI WineMakers Dinners, the MidAtlantic Food + Wine Festival, the USO Grand Gala, and the James Beard House.