Juan Manuel Barrientos

El Cielo Washington

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Saturday, May 10, 2025 at the Grand Tasting Reception

Chef Juan Manuel Barrientos, widely known as “Juanma,” was born in Medellín on June 16, 1983. He is a Michelin-starred chef, entrepreneur, and peace leader, with a portfolio that includes over thirteen restaurants, bars, and a luxury boutique hotel. As the founder of the Elcielo Restaurants in Medellín, Bogotá, Miami, and Washington, D.C., and other notable establishments such as La Sere, Cuon, Kaime, Elcielo Classic, Aguafresca, Shibari Bar, El Navegante Bar, Syrenka Bar in Medellín, and AO in Bogotá, Juanma has made significant contributions to the culinary world.

Juanma’s culinary journey began with studies at Colegiatura Colombiana in Medellín and Mariano Moreno in Buenos Aires. His early career was shaped by working alongside esteemed chefs like Iwao Komiyama in Argentina and Juan Mari Arzak in Spain. In Medellín, he leads a creative workshop, a unique space where chefs, designers, and creatives collaborate to develop innovative dishes and concepts for the Elcielo Hospitality Group.

His accolades are numerous, with one of the most notable being the achievement of the first Michelin Star for a Colombian restaurant on April 22, 2021, at Elcielo Washington, D.C. This historic accomplishment marked a milestone in Colombian gastronomy. In 2019, Juanma was named Ibero-American Businessman of the Year by CEAJE in Spain, and his best-selling book, “The Recipe for Success,” published in 2018, shares his insights into achieving success in both the culinary and business worlds.

Recognized as the youngest chef in Latin America’s 50 Best for three consecutive years, Juanma was also featured in the exclusive list of The World’s Best Chef in 2016. He has shared his expertise at global forums, including an invitation to speak at the World Entrepreneurship Summit by former U.S. President Barack Obama. Today, Juanma continues to inspire and guide companies on creativity and innovation, helping to redefine their organizational DNA.

Follow Juanma on social media @juanmaelcielo to stay updated on his latest ventures and culinary creations.