Originally from Canóvanas, Puerto Rico, René Olmeda-Santana's work experience includes San Juan Marriott Hotel, Condado Plaza Hotel & Casino, Pikayo Restaurant, under renowned Chef Wilo Bennet, and the Boutique Hotel in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. Olmeda moved to Washington, DC to work at a Chocolate Lounge & Restaurant, CoCo Sala, and a variety of hotels within the Walt Disney World Village and opened the St Regis Hotel in Puerto Rico, as the Executive Pastry Chef of the property.Olmeda taught in Universidad Del Este in Puerto Rico and Le Cordon Bleu College – Orlando and was part of the National Culinary team of Puerto Rico (2004 & 2007) as Capitan and Pastry Chef obtaining Gold and Silver medals. He was named the 2007 Caribbean’s Best Pastry Chef, being the first Puerto Rican to win this recognition.