St. Augustine, Florida
May 8-12, 2024

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Luisa Trabanino

Pastry Chef,

Viva Hospitality

Luisa Trabanino, originally from the vibrant city of Medellín, Colombia 🇨🇴, embarked on a remarkable culinary adventure. Her journey began at the ECCI Culinary Arts Institute in Bogotá, Colombia. However, her passion for pastry blossomed much earlier—when she was just 12 years old, assisting her grandmother in a cozy bakery. There, she learned the art of crafting breads, cakes, and delectable chocolate cookies.
 
In pursuit of her culinary dreams, Luisa landed in the United States. In 2012, she joined the esteemed Ritz Carlton Hotel Company, where her journey took an exciting turn. Imagine the privilege of learning from renowned French chefs! Etienne Leroy and Nicolas Bottoms were among those who generously shared their expertise, shaping Luisa’s culinary path.
 
Her career has been a tapestry of experiences. From Country Clubs to bustling kitchens, Luisa collaborated with diverse teams. These interactions infused her creations with unique flavors and a distinctive style.
 
So, when diners savor Luisa’s desserts at all three Viva Hospitality Stores, including Pesca By Michales, La Nouvelle Bistro, and Michaels in St. Augustine, they experience the essence of her culinary journey—a journey fueled by love, dedication, and the joy of creating art on a plate.