Rodrigo Pacheco

Rodrigo Pacheco is an Ecuadorian chef known for his innovative approach to gastronomy and environmental conservation. His career is marked by a deep commitment to sustainable practices and the use of native ingredients, reflecting his dedication to his country’s biodiversity. Pacheco has gained international recognition through various culinary endeavors and his active role in promoting socio-environmental causes.

His work extends beyond the kitchen, focusing on the creation and development of initiatives like the “largest Biodiverse Edible Forest in the world,” a project he spearheads as Executive Director of the Bocavaldivia Foundation. This initiative aims to protect nature, ancestral knowledge, and generate economic opportunities for local communities by integrating biodiversity into culinary practices. His approach involves maintaining primary forests, restoring deforested areas using regenerative methods, and fostering sustainable gastronomy and ecological tourism as economic drivers.

Pacheco’s influence in the culinary world is highlighted by his participation in prestigious events, including appearing on Netflix’s “The Final Table” and serving as a jury member at the Bocuse d’Or world gastronomy competition. He is also the executive chef and founder of Bocavaldivia restaurant and Foresta restaurant in Quito. His diplomatic role as a National Goodwill Ambassador for Ecuador at the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations further demonstrates his global commitment to addressing socio-environmental issues through culinary arts and conservation.