Puerto Rican Chef Celebrated as “Best of Fort Worth 2025″ - A Fusion of Flavors and Cultural Pride
Viva Gastronomy, a restaurant in Fort Worth, Texas, is gaining recognition for it’s innovative approach to Puerto Rican cuisine, earning the title of Best of Fort worth 2025. The restaurant, spearheaded by its chef, is moving away from customary buffet-style dining, opting rather for a refined and personalized culinary experience.
The chef explains the restaurant’s core ideology: “We have taken Puerto Rican gastronomy and fused it with that from here, managing to enter both markets through Puerto Rican flavors, but always respecting the local ingredients of Fort Worth.”
Key to this fusion are specific Puerto Rican flavors brought to Texas. “With guava,” the chef stated emphatically,”That is the one hit wonder - it is here to stay.” viva Gastronomy has creatively incorporated guava into Texan barbecue, featuring it in thier brisket and ribs, as well as sauces and desserts. Tamarind has also become a signature element of their menu. Alongside these innovative combinations, the restaurant remains committed to classic Puerto Rican dishes, ensuring staples like rice with pigeon peas, pernil (slow-roasted pork shoulder), and traditional Christmas pastries are always available, especially for the local Puerto Rican community.
Diners are often initially surprised by the unique flavor pairings. “They are very surprised by our proposals. Sometimes they are a little doubtful about the guava in the barbecue or the tamarind in their menus, but in the end they are completely pleased and surprised,” the chef shared.
the Best of Fort Worth 2025 award is based on customer nominations and reviews across various platforms, highlighting both the quality of service and the growing gratitude for Puerto Rican cuisine.
The chef expressed a profound sense of pride and duty with the recognition. “Along with a deep pride, I feel a great commitment to representing our gastronomic culture, those flavors and ingredients that are part of our cuisine.I have always had that responsibility, and now more than ever that Puerto rico is in the international spotlight thanks to Bad Bunny and the residency at the choliseo. This responsibility comes with enormous gratification: knowing that we are doing things well. Not everyone has the opportunity to represent their land in the industry that they are passionate about, and I have had the honor of not only being recognized, but of doing so every day of my life.”
Beyond the restaurant, the chef is actively involved in projects to highlight the Puerto Rican diaspora in Fort Worth. They have collaborated with other Puerto Ricans in the city to create a documentary video showcasing the impact and contributions of the community. “The representation is authentic because it comes from a patriotic impulse and pride. Here there is a growing interest in our culture, and it is a privilege to be part of that movement that keeps the Puerto Rican identity alive outside the island.”