Chefs and Culinary Talent

Ismael LaSalle, Executive Chef

Executive Chef Ismael LaSalle leads the culinary team at the Miami Beach Convention Center with over 20 years of experience in high-volume, high-end catering. His impressive résumé includes three Super Bowls, a World Series, serving 9,000 technology developers at Ellucian Live, and orchestrating a 500-guest gala dinner for the Prince of Monaco. Chef LaSalle has also crafted meals for top celebrities such as Jennifer Lopez, Alex Rodriguez, and Miami’s own Pitbull. Known for his passion for Latin Caribbean flavors and his talent for creating irresistible pastries and desserts, Chef LaSalle infuses every menu at MBCC with innovation, elegance, and a true taste of Miami.

Please contact us for any questions or inquiries: [email protected]

Maria Valencia, Pastry Chef

With more than seven years of experience in large-scale culinary operations across premier venues, María Valencia brings creativity, precision, and passion to the Miami Beach Convention Center kitchen. A classically trained chef with expertise in both savory cuisine and pastry, María blends innovation with refined technique to design memorable menus and presentations for events of every size. She is known for her leadership, attention to detail, and dedication to maintaining the highest culinary standards, helping ensure every guest experience at the Convention Center is exceptional.