Richard was born and raised in Juana Diaz, Puerto Rico, where he was exposed to an unique style of Caribbean cooking culture “Cocina Criolla”.

Being a son of a Chef from early on, he knew the importance of gathering around the table, as well as watching his great grand father roast pigs (one of his greatest memories). During his time as a student at Johnson and Wales University he also worked his way up in professional kitchens alongside with Mario Corona. Richard’s culinary philosophy and passion reflects the growing trend towards a healthier and down-to-earth lifestyle while honoring his skills and family traditions.

Mario was born and raised in Aguada, Puerto Rico. As a child, he spent a lot of his time in the kitchen with his mom. In 2011, Mario moved to Miami to study culinary arts at Johnson and Wales university, which is where he met Richard. His culinary endeavors brought Mario to the Washington, DC area in 2017. During a casual afternoon conversation with Richard the idea of Lechonera DMV was born. Mario loves to connect with people through food and what a better way than paying homage to his roots with a plate of Lechon Asao’.

Born in Venezuela and raised in Miami, Florida where she studied at Johnson & Wales University and met Amy, Mario and Richard.

After graduating with a Bachelors in Food & Beverage Management, Keysi worked in several restaurants in Miami and then took a position as a Food Safety inspector for the state of Florida for three years. From then on her and her husband Richard moved to Virginia where she works for a private restaurant group as the internal food safety inspector and culture systems manager.

Amy is a first-generation Cuban-American born and raised in Hialeah, FL. She grew up eating “puerco asado” at every single family function. Her mom is from Camagüey where the lechon is asado en “púa” aka a spit… very similar to how it’s made here at Lechonera DMV! During the day, Amy manages the training and events program at a local non-profit association. On her free time, she loves to travel and attend concerts. Amy is the fun godmother of Mila, Luna, & Richard and proud dog mom of Benito (yes, like Bad Bunny).

Hugo was born in El Salvador, Central America, and at a young age moved with his parents to New York City. It was there he was first introduced and found his love for different cultures of food. His appreciation for Puerto Rican food is second to none, his wife Melinda is Puerto Rican and introduced him to the Puerto Rican culture, cuisine, and La isla del encanto. Over the years he has been emerged in the Puerto Rican culture and prides himself on the love of the cuisine.