Meet Chef Eddie Cambronero
Meet Chef Eddie: A Taste of Passion and Purpose
Behind every memorable meal is a story, and Chef Eddie’s story is one of heart, heritage, and bold new beginnings. After a successful career in corporate America, he made the courageous decision to return to his first love: cooking. Today, he offers bespoke private dining and catering experiences for vacationers, second homeowners, and families visiting the stunning Pacific coast of Costa Rica.
A Culinary Journey Rooted in Family
Chef Eddie’s path to the kitchen began early, as the eldest of five siblings. With his parents working long hours, he took on the responsibility of preparing meals. In doing so, he discovered not just a knack for cooking but a deep love for seeing others enjoy what he created. His passion led him to an 18-month culinary program offered by UC Irvine, where he was introduced to a wide range of international cuisines including Thai, Chinese, and Italian. This exposure expanded his palate and taught him techniques he still uses today.
“I already knew how to cook,” he says. “But that program taught me to refine my technique and fall in love with new flavors.”
From Market to Table
Chef Eddie’s menus are inspired by the bounty of Costa Rica’s local markets. He believes in building dishes around what’s fresh and available, never compromising by substituting key ingredients. While he maintains a core menu, he’s always open to customizing for dietary needs and special occasions, creating meals that are as unique as the people he serves.
Whether preparing everything in advance or cooking live in the client’s kitchen, his goal is to make every experience memorable. Many guests enjoy engaging in conversation, picking up cooking tips, or even joining in for a spontaneous lesson.
Local Fusion, Elevated
Chef Eddie loves reimagining Costa Rican classics. One standout is his “Chiprinto,” a breakfast take on the popular chifrijo that combines gallo pinto, pork, beans, pico de gallo, avocado, and sour cream. Another is his black bean soup, which fuses the flavors of Mexican tortilla soup with Costa Rica’s beloved sopa negra.
For dessert, expect the unexpected. One crowd favorite is fried plantain with tamarind sauce over ice cream—a creative dish that never fails to delight.
More Than Just a Meal
Guests who book a private dining experience can expect:
- Thoughtfully curated menus using local ingredients
- Seamless service from planning to plating
- Personal interaction and cooking tips (when desired)
- Insightful conversation and local knowledge
Chef Eddie has served a wide range of clients, from visiting families to groups of friends on vacation. One of his most memorable experiences involved guests without transportation dining at his own home. That spontaneous evening inspired him to begin hosting private dinners in his own space as well.
A Leap of Faith
Leaving behind a high-paying career wasn’t easy, but for Chef Eddie, the joy of sharing food and culture far outweighs the risk.
“This is a challenge,” he says. “But it’s also a dream. I get to create freely every day and share what I love with others. That’s worth everything.”
Whether you’re planning a special evening, hosting guests, or simply craving an unforgettable meal in paradise, Chef Eddie brings flavor, warmth, and authenticity to every table.
A Personal Note
“For me, cooking isn’t a performance — it’s an invitation. It’s how I welcome you into the moment. Every dish I create is made with care and intention. I focus on fresh, local ingredients, bold global influences, and creative plating that reflects the story of the people I’m cooking for. Whether I’m in your villa or welcoming you to Casa Eco De Mar, I want every meal to feel relaxed, nourishing, and memorable.”
— Chef Eddie Cambronero
What makes Eklectic Kitchen Unique
"All my food is fat free.... I'm not charging you for the fat!"
“When you hire me, it’s not just about food — it’s about connection.”
“The meal is just the beginning — the real magic happens when people connect around the table"
Where He Cooks
Chef Eddie serves guests in Manuel Antonio, Dominical, Uvita, Ojochal, and throughout the Portasol community. He also hosts intimate dinners at Casa Eco De Mar, his home tucked in the mountains. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, romantic getaway, or special occasion, Eddie brings the Eklectic Kitchen experience to you.
A Taste of what guests are saying...
”I’ve had the pleasure of dining at Eddie’s home, Casa Eco De Mar, more times than I can count and each visit has been as unforgettable as the last. Tucked up in the mountains of Portasol with a sunset view and jungle breeze, it’s one of the best places to share a meal with good friends. Chef Eddie’s home isn’t just a backdrop it’s part of the experience. From the moment you arrive, you know that you are entering a hidden sanctuary where food, music, nature, and personal connection all come together. The dishes are always creative and beautifully presented, and the vibe is pure pura vida: relaxed, genuine, and full of flavor in every sense. My wife and I have enjoyed private dinners there with friends, quiet nights as a couple, and everything in between. Whether he’s cooking something new or one of his signature favorites, Eddie always pours heart and soul into every detail. If you’re lucky enough to be invited to a meal at Eco De Mar — go. You won’t want to leave.”
— Michael Z. | Kentucky | Costa Rica
”Chef Eddie has cooked for my family and friends multiple times. He also cooked for us when we had a neighborhood party. Eddie is a very friendly and talented chef. I love his Papa Rellena with Chipotle sauce appetizer. He always makes a little extra just for me because he knows I love them. I highly recommend Chef Eddie to cook for you and yours. ”
— Mark & Christine L. | Portasol | California
Find Chef Eddie on the gram!
