Gracia Navarro & Alexander Herrera

San Salvador, El Salvador

1 knife
One knife
Excellent

She is a talented Salvadoran chef, pastry chef, and baker who has dedicated her life to exploring the flavours and culinary techniques of her country and the world. Her cuisine is deeply rooted in childhood memories, the stories she has gathered throughout El Salvador, and the inspiration she finds in diverse cultures and gastronomic traditions.

Achievements

Restaurant

El Xolo

Location

Museo Nacional de Antropología MUNA, Avenida La Revolución, Colonia San Benito, Av. De La Revolucion, San Salvador

Socials

Bio

As a leading figure in Salvadoran gastronomy, Gracia works closely with small producers and Indigenous communities, contributing to local development and the preservation of ancestral culinary techniques. Through her work, she has become an important advocate for contemporary Salvadoran cuisine and native ingredients, always showing deep respect for culture and tradition.

Gracia Navarro is also a passionate advocate for women’s rights, promoting their participation across all areas of society and reflecting a strong commitment to equality and social justice.

Currently leading El Xolo and Gracia, her culinary projects have positioned her as one of the main voices in Salvadoran cuisine. In 2024, El Xolo was recognised as the best restaurant in El Salvador, and in 2025 she received a knife at The Best Chef Awards.

These achievements underscore her talent, honest cuisine, and dedication to traditional recipes and the flavours of her memory.

A distinguished Salvadoran chef, he is a leading figure in contemporary gastronomy in his country and the founder of El Xolo – Gracia, projects through which he has significantly contributed to the evolution of Salvadoran cuisine.

El Xolo has been recognised as one of the top restaurants in Latin America and, in 2025, received a knife at The Best Chef Awards.

His cuisine is defined by a deep commitment to local ingredients and support for Salvadoran communities. Alex is dedicated to celebrating Salvadoran products and culinary creations rooted in their heritage. His ability to combine these influences in an essential and modern way is a testament to his culinary mastery.

He works closely with local producers and promotes a modern Salvadoran cuisine that honours tradition. Since 2010, he has travelled throughout the country, researching Indigenous communities and local markets—experiences that have profoundly shaped his gastronomic vision.

His legacy endures as a beacon of innovation, identity, and authenticity in contemporary Salvadoran cuisine.

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