With a distinguished career among Michelin-starred restaurants, a new chapter of culinary distinction begins at Condado Vanderbilt's celebrated fine-dining restaurant.
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, Dec. 5, 2025 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Condado Vanderbilt Hotel, the iconic oceanfront property originally built in 1919 by Frederick William Vanderbilt, proudly announces the appointment of Chef Ciaran Elliott as Executive Chef of its signature fine dining restaurant, 1919 Restaurant. With a distinguished career in Michelin-starred restaurants spanning across Europe and New York, as well as his own success from opening Pio Pio in Puerto Rico, Chef Ciarán brings a globally informed yet locally inspired approach to one of the Caribbean's most celebrated culinary destinations.
"This marks an exciting new chapter for 1919 and the Condado Vanderbilt," said Ben Tutt, Managing Partner, The Condado Collection. "Chef Ciarán's international training, creative vision, and deep respect for Puerto Rico's ingredients align perfectly with our commitment to excellence. His arrival ushers in a modern era of fine dining that is sophisticated and guided by seasonality and sustainability."
Born in York, England, and raised between England and Dublin, Ireland, Chef Ciarán trained at Ireland's acclaimed two-Michelin-starred Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud, where he earned the distinction of Euro-Toques Ireland's Young Chef of the Year. His formative years included experiences in some of Europe's most celebrated kitchens, including Arzak and Akelarre in Spain, Frantzén in Stockholm, Hertog Jan in Bruges, and Chapter One in Dublin.
In 2015, Chef Ciarán joined Thomas Keller's three-Michelin-starred Per Se in New York City, where he spent nearly five years rising to Sous Chef, mastering precision, discipline, and creativity in one of the world's most exacting culinary environments. Relocating to Puerto Rico in 2020, Chef Ciarán co-founded Pio Pio, an intimate wine bar and chef's counter in Old San Juan. There, he earned acclaim for imaginative use of local ingredients and creating an engaging dining experience, blending luxury and approachability, from caviar service to lobster brioche and malanga gnocchi. Pio Pio quickly became one of the island's most compelling destinations for inventive, elevated cuisine.
At 1919, through Chef Ciarán's vision, the reimagined menu blends ingredients inspired by Puerto Rico's rich culinary heritage with contemporary global techniques and offers guests an approachable fine dining experience throughout a la carte and tasting menus. Exemplifying Chef Ciarán's philosophy of purity of flavor, precision of technique, and approachable elegance, refined dishes promise seasonality and creative presentation including roasted leeks with Burgundy truffles, confit hazelnuts, and Tête de Moine cheese; grilled squid stuffed with artisanal morcilla in the traditional Burgos style; a classic cheese soufflé made with Capaez cheese from Vaca Negra in Hatillo, finished with Champagne beurre blanc and a tempura-fried oregano brujo leaf; and more. He also plans to introduce interactive experiences, such as chef's counter events and wine paired dinners, allowing guests to connect directly with the kitchen team and the culinary story of Puerto Rico.
"1919 represents both legacy and opportunity," said Chef Ciarán Elliott. "It's a privilege to lead such a talented and passionate team. My goal is to craft cuisine that feels refined yet personal, celebrating Puerto Rico's rich ingredients while introducing a contemporary sensibility to every dish. We're refining every element, from sourcing and presentation to service and storytelling, so that each meal reflects the island's vibrant culture and the joy of dining itself. I want guests to feel the history of 1919, while experiencing it in a dynamic, modern way."
With Chef Ciarán at the helm, 1919 continues to set the standard for fine dining in Puerto Rico, where artistry, craftsmanship, and hospitality converge in every detail. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit condadovanderbilt.com/dine/1919-restaurant or www.condadovanderbilt.com or follow the hotel on Instagram at @condadovanderbilt.
ABOUT CONDADO VANDERBILT HOTEL
Located in the heart of San Juan's stylish Condado District, Condado Vanderbilt is a meticulously restored historic landmark offering timeless elegance, oceanfront luxury, and world-class service. Originally built in 1919 by Frederick William Vanderbilt, the hotel has redefined Puerto Rican hospitality with 317 exquisitely appointed guest rooms, including 100 suites with 24-hour butler service. The property features a 10,000-square-foot spa, home to Puerto Rico's only Hammam, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and multiple oceanfront pools and beach areas with exclusive Beach Butler service. Guests enjoy culinary excellence at four signature restaurants including the award-winning 1919, along with elevated casual concepts like Tacos & Tequila, and stylish lounges such as the VC Lounge and Avo Cigar Lounge. With over 30,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor event space, Condado Vanderbilt is also a premier destination for weddings, meetings, and social gatherings. From its rich heritage and iconic architecture to its unparalleled amenities and personalized service, Condado Vanderbilt offers a sophisticated Caribbean experience like no other.
ABOUT PAULSON PUERTO RICO
Paulson Puerto Rico is a leading company and a Top 10 employer on the island, shaping the hospitality, development, and auto landscape since 2013. Our diversified portfolio includes iconic properties such as the Condado Vanderbilt Hotel, La Concha Resort, Condado Ocean Club, American International Plaza, 270 Muñoz Rivera Avenue, St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort and Golf Club, Ocean Dive Residences, and Vanderbilt Residences. Additionally, we proudly represent renowned automotive brands including Porsche, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Bentley, Maserati, Audi, Land Rover, and Jaguar. For more information visit LinkedIn.
Media Contact
Murphy O'Brien Public Relations, Condado Vanderbilt Hotel, 1 310.453.2539, [email protected], https://www.condadovanderbilt.com/
SOURCE Condado Vanderbilt Hotel
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