March 27, 2025 – It is with profound sadness that we say goodbye to one of our longest-serving Presidents, Eddy Fernández, of the Culinary Federation of Cuba. With over 40 years dedicated to Cuban cuisine, Chef Fernández was an iconic figure whose legacy transcends borders.
Chef Eddy’s journey was fueled by his deep passion for the industry, leading to him becoming a respected leader in the Cuban culinary community. He was instrumental in the creation of the Artechef Project, a vital initiative that aimed to preserve and promote Cuban cuisine. His unwavering commitment led to the recognition of Cuban Creole cuisine as a cultural heritage of the nation by the National Heritage Council, marking a gastronomic milestone for the country.
Internationally, Chef Fernández was recognized for his contributions, becoming a member of the French Academy of Culinary Arts and serving as Vice President for the Caribbean of AREGALA. He was a tireless advocate for Cuban gastronomy and his voice resonated with global platforms like through Worldchefs, where he proudly represented Cuba’s place on the culinary map and elevated Cuban culinary traditions worldwide.
Eddy served as a member of Worldchefs Heritage committee for several years, and in 2020, he was awarded Worldchefs’ Life Achievement Award for his outstanding contribution to the culinary industry.
Throughout his career, Eddy was known for his humility and dedication, earning the respect of peers and colleagues. He was a mentor, teacher, and innovator, deeply rooted in Cuban culture and its rich culinary identity. His passing is a tremendous loss, not just to Cuban cuisine but to the global culinary community.
Chef Fernández’s contributions will forever be remembered, and his legacy will continue through the projects he established and the chefs he mentored. Our deepest condolences go out to his family, his wife Ms. Idania Garcia, his colleagues, and all who were touched by his life and work.
True to his modest character, Chef Fernández did not want any tributes or ceremonies. The Culinary Federation of Cuba has thus highlighted his legacy and called to continue his work. The statement issued by the federation emphasizes the need to preserve his projects, such as the Artechef Publishing House, and to continue promoting Cuban Creole cuisine, to which he dedicated his life.
You leave us shattered, but your devotion to the kitchen won’t let us stop.
May your life and your work of a good man always live among us.
Fly high dear Eddy Fernandez Monte.
– Culinary Federation of Cuba
To learn more, visit:
https://cubasi.cu/es/noticia/fallecio-el-chef-eddy-fernandez-presidente-de-la-asociacion-culinaria
