Lordfer Lalicon is the executive chef and co-owner of Kaya in Orlando, a community-focused Filipino restaurant awarded Florida’s first Michelin Green Star for sustainability. Kaya opened in late 2022 and quickly drew national attention, including a 2024 James Beard Best New Restaurant finalist nod. Lalicon’s approach blends Filipino tradition with careful sourcing and low-waste practices; he has trained with Dan Barber at Blue Hill at Stone Barns and previously cooked at Kadence in Winter Park. He co-owns Kaya with general manager Jamilyn Salonga Bailey and works closely with Central Florida farms to anchor the menu in local ecology.
Lordfer Lalicon
Chef and co-owner of Kaya in Orlando, Lordfer Lalicon earned Florida’s first Michelin Green Star, marrying sustainability and hospitality in Filipino dining rooted in local farms and Blue Hill training.
Chef
Expert’s Contributions
Medium
55MIN
Chef Lordfer Lalicon’s adobo base leans on coconut cream, two vinegars, and soy, then finishes with roasted mushrooms for depth. Flexible, feast-friendly, and built for rice.
