Inside the Kitchen: Seven Questions with Juan Manuel Barrientos of elcielo Washington

5 Minute read

27 Aug 2025

Writer

Chef Juan Manuel “Juanma” Barrientos has redefined Colombian dining with elcielo, his Michelin-starred restaurant group spanning Medellín, Bogotá, Miami, and Washington, D.C. Known for his “fun dining” philosophy, Barrientos blends Colombian heritage with modernist technique and theatrical flair. In this Q&A, he shares food memories, comfort favorites, and the restaurant he dreams of opening next.

What Is Your Deserted Island Meal?

My last meal would be chorizo from Fredonia [in Colombia’s Antioquia region], sweet plantains, and white rice.

What’s Your Most Poignant Food Memory?

Eating sweet fried plantains in my grandmother’s kitchen in Fredonia. She would put some next to the pot for me and the rest would be hidden, because she knew I would come eat them. Before she did that, there were many times I would eat all of them so there were none left for anyone else.

What Does Fine Dining Mean to You?

Seeking perfection in culinary and hospitality, and finding excellence.

What Are Your Restaurant Goals or Dreams?

We have always dreamt of opening elcielo in New York City. One day we’ll be there.

What’s On Your Restaurant Bucket List to Visit?

Alchemist in Copenhagen. Everybody says it’s a unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience.

What Is Your Food/Cooking Philosophy?

Roots, deliciousness, purpose, and fun dining.

What's Your Comfort Food?

Sushi. In Miami, I love SHINGO and Sushi Yasu Tanaka. Here in D.C., Sushi Nakazawa is outstanding.

The Chef

Colombian chef Juan Manuel Barrientos, known as Juanma, is the founder of elcielo, blending tradition, modernist techniques, and Colombian ingredients into an award-winning, Michelin-starred global restaurant group.

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