Trova introduces Chef Daniel Lugo, who unveils a new menu

By Jennifer Conde-Powers
Special to The Star

Trova restaurant at Wyndham Palmas Beach & Boutique Golf Resort in Humacao introduced the new culinary delicacies from renowned Chef Daniel Lugo, who has amassed a wealth of know-how from mentor and Michelin-starred restaurateur Chef José Andrés and his top positions at innovative and acclaimed restaurants in Washington, D.C. from the Spanish Diner to Jaleo, China Chilcano, and Zaytinya.
Recently, Chef Lugo joined Trova to introduce his culinary vision from his years of experience with a menu that is uniquely created as his “love letter for Puerto Rico,” in honor of his roots since he was born and raised in Mayagüez, and to celebrate his grandmother, who fostered his love for cooking.


“Returning to Puerto Rico from Washington, D.C., after years of working is more than a homecoming – it’s a chance to give back to the island that shaped me,” Chef Lugo said.

At Trova, the delicious menu reimagines classic Puerto Rican dishes, which Chef Lugo has manifested from his special memories growing up on the island, such as Pulpo al estilo Joyuda, a delicate plated dish of thinly sliced octopus, olive oil, avocado, lime, “aji dulce,” and cilantro inspired by his childhood visits to Joyuda, a fishing village on Puerto Rico’s west coast. Chef Lugo also introduced a local culinary favorite, Mero de Caldo Santo, a seared local grouper marinated with Loíza’s famous coconut fish soup, showcasing his commitment to focusing on Puerto Rico’s rich cultural heritage, with Loíza being a longtime culinary hotspot, rich in Afro-Caribbean flavors. Then, the popular Ensalada de Raíces Locales, a roasted local root salad with cumin, goat cheese, oranges, and pumpkin seed, exemplifies Chef Lugo’s focus on using the freshest ingredients cultivated by local vendors.
The imaginative menu’s breadth and scope inspire the concept of wellness and being rooted in the land, making it a must-visit restaurant that ties in excellent storytelling that in turn spotlights Puerto Rico’s favorite dishes with contemporary and global flavors. Visit www.wyndhampalmas.com/palmas to learn more.
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