Lisandra Cruz
Lisandra Cruz, also known as Chef Cruz, established her brand “Sabor Taíno” in July 2018, indicating a mixture of the authentic flavor of the Taínos of Puerto Rico and Venezuela. The name came out of a desire to preserve the combination of cultures and the inclusion of Creole dishes alongside more modern food. With that said, Lisandra has been able to incorporate Sabor Taino through her participation in the Mercado, Metuchen Farmers Market, and other external catering opportunities.
“My desire is to grow with the community as a family so that when they go to eat at Sabor Taíno, they will feel at home.”
What began as an interest in being in the kitchen since childhood has now become a deep love to share Puerto Rico’s delicious dishes. Lisandra comments, “Sabor Taíno represents a dream that I have always wanted to realize. My goal is to take it to a humanitarian level. My desire is to grow with the community as a family so that when they go to eat at Sabor Taíno, they will feel at home.”
Finally, Lisandra also thanks her grandmother (Mama Geña) and her godmother who taught her how to cook. “They gave me the push, or as they say in Puerto Rico, they gave me a good luck catch.”
