Chef Gustavo’s culinary journey is nothing short of a celebration of the diverse and vibrant flavors that define Latin American and beyond. With 35 years of hands-on experience, Chef Gustavo isn’t just a chef; he’s a storyteller, bringing the rich traditions of Latin American kitchens into every dish he prepares.
A Life in Food: The Story of Chef Gustavo
For 20 years, Chef Gustavo has been the heart and soul of Rumba Café in Adams Morgan, Washington, D.C., a restaurant that has become synonymous with authentic Latin American cuisine in the city. But Gustavo’s journey started long before he became a fixture in D.C. His culinary exploration spans continents and cultures, making him a master of not only Latin American cuisine but also the complexities of French and Spanish culinary traditions.
An Immersive Education in Latin American Cooking
What sets Chef Gustavo apart is his deep immersion into the cultures he celebrates through food. Over the years, he traveled extensively throughout Latin America, from the Caribbean islands to the southern tip of South America. In each country, he lived and learned from local families, absorbing culinary secrets passed down through generations. His approach to Latin American cooking is not just about recipes—it’s about understanding the heart and soul of each dish, the history behind it, and the traditions that make it unique.
South American Flavors
Cebiche : Peru
Lemon juice marinated fish diced, red onions, habanero pepper,
Sweet potato, lettuce, cilantro.
Empanada: Argentina
Ground beef, boiled egg, sofrito, sprint onion,
Olive, baked.
Arepa Reina Pepiada: Venezuela
Corn meal cake, filled with shredded chicken, avocado,
Sprint onion, cilantro, lime juice, olive oil.
Quinoa salad: Bolivia
Quinoa, diced manchego cheese, tomatoes, onion, lettuce, pepper,
(red wine vinegar, olive oil)