Chef's Dinner Series Presents... Chef Carlos Portela

132 Mulberry Street, No. 502, New York, NY 10013

Chef Carlos Portela's avante-garde Puerto Rican cuisine is considered a breakthrough in the evolution of the island's food experience.  His hyper local product philosophy has created numerous relationships with farmers, fishers, and producers from around the island. Originally from Caguas, Puerto Rico, Portela is the executive chef at Orujo Taller, located in San Juan. Orujo is known for its innovative approach to Puerto Rican influenced cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients and traditional techniques.

This dinner event is one of a series featuring the world-class cuisine available in Puerto Rico, alongside its beautiful beaches and world-famous musicians. The venue is a special place, too; Chef's Dinner Table is a private culinary salon tucked away in a downtown NYC loft offering the ultimate experience in luxury private dining.

Please consider joining us for this special evening of fine dining and intimate conversation featuring a curated 4-course tasting menu professionally paired with exquisite wines.  The evening will begin with cocktail offerings provided by Don Q Rum.

Note: all food, drink and gratuities are included with your ticket purchase, so you don't need to worry about settling a bill at the end of the night.

THE MENU

Canapés:

1st Course:

2nd Course:

3rd course:

Dessert:

ABOUT THE CHEF

Carlos Portela was a James Beard finalist in 2024 for Best Chef of the South and again in 2025 for the Outstanding Chef award.  Recognized as "The Best Chef in the Caribbean" in 2005 by the Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association, he has traveled to different parts of Europe and Latin America representing Puerto Rican Gastronomy. As a connector and advocate of Puerto Rican chefs, he works on expanding the philosophy of food sovereignty and knowledge of the cuisine of Puerto Rico and the Caribbean, which is among the most complex in history and flavor.  On this special evening, he will recreate the ambiance, dynamics and experimentation of his chef-driven concept, incorporating local flavors and techniques of the Caribbean by using ingredients sourced inside the NYC area.

Read more about Chef Portela in Food & Wine

Watch this video for more on his cuisine style and sourcing practices

FAQs

Do you accommodate dietary restrictions?

• Yes. Please email Info@ChefsDinnerTableNYC.com with your dietary needs with at least 3 days' notice. With less notice, we will undertake our best effort (but cannot guarantee) to accommodate your dietary restrictions.

Is there a dress code?

• Nobody will be barred at the door for their garb (unless they come in tank-tops and sandals!). The tone of the evening will be somewhere between smart-casual and elegant. Men are encouraged (not required) to wear a dinner jacket. Ladies will no doubt take the opportunity to impress each other. You are free to make your own choices in the context of the above.

Are there any ID requirements or an age limit to enter the event?

• Guests must be at least 21 Years of age with valid ID.

What is the closest subway stop to the event?

• B, D to Grand Street
• 6 to Canal Street
• J,Z to Canal Street
• N,Q,R,W to Canal Street

What are the closest parking lots to the event?

There are 5 parking lots nearby (in order of proximity):

• 123 - 129 Baxter St, New York, NY 10013 (Closest, underground)
• 174 Centre St, New York, NY 10013 (2-minute walk; open-air)
• 104 Mott St, New York, NY 10013 (2-minute walk; underground)
• 44 Elizabeth St, New York, NY 10013 (3-minute walk; underground)
• 395 Broome St, New York, NY 10013 (3-minute walk; open-air)

What is the refund policy? Is my registration/ticket transferable?

• While tickets are not refundable, they are transferable to anyone of legal drinking age. If you are unable to use your ticket, we will undertake to re-sell your ticket on a best-efforts basis subject to a 20% service fee.

Do I have to bring my printed ticket to the event?

• No. (just have some ID handy)

Where can I contact the organizer with additional questions?

• Please email Info@ChefsDinnerTableNYC.com