Joel Taboada
Chef Joel Taboada, is one of the incredible forces behind Miami’s Havana Harry’s, currently serving as the Head Chef of the popular Cuban restaurant in Coral Gables.
Originally hailing from Cuba, Chef Taboada’s first venture into the hospitality world working in food operations on the island. Following a move to Seville, Spain, he began supporting as a waiter and assistant for a Spanish hotel group. Through his hospitality experience and proximity to Spanish cuisine, he decided to pursue an intensive chef course at Alabardero in Seville, and then immersed himself in the country’s culinary world, which gave him the foundation and expertise he needed to become a chef.
While in Spain, Chef Taboada spent his early years as a professional chef at La Montanera, a renowned restaurant that is celebrated for its Southern Spanish cuisine. As he progressed in his career, Chef Taboada was ready to take on the next challenge, moving to South Florida in 2015. Since relocating to Miami, Chef has worked on many projects, opening culinary concepts in Winter Park, working various chef roles at Casa de Espana, Tavernas Ignacio, and Tamarina Brickell, and later founding Iberico Spanish Cuisine.
In February 2023, Chef Taboada joined Centurion Restaurant Group and in May he was appointed as Havana Harry’s Head Chef, returning to the cuisine of his childhood. His mission is to add innovative dishes and ingredients to Havana Harry’s menu while evoking a sense of nostalgia for the large Miami Cuban community that’s dined there for generations.
When asked who he looks up to, Chef Taboada cites the world-renowned Spanish Chef José Andrés as one of his biggest mentors and inspirations. Chef Taboada is deeply moved by Andrés’ passion for his food and community, two of the most important things in Chef Taboada’s life.
