With more than 20 years of experience, Varela has been a featured chef at James Beard House, the XIV International Gourmet Festival and served as culinary instructor for the International School of Tourism & Hotel Management. In 2007, Valera captured the hearts of TV audiences as she opened her kitchen to reality cameras as executive chef at the Parker Meridien Palm Springs for the BRAVO series “Welcome to the Parker.”

Reflecting her love for Latin, French and Asian flavors, Varela has completely reinvented Rice’s menus, showcasing her unique fusion flair with dishes that are never over-complicated but instead allow the ingredients to speak for themselves. Featuring unusual combinations, including Plantains Au Gratin with Braised Pork Tenderloin, curry ginger and blood orange oil, her new menus also introduce all house-made desserts.

Born and raised in Puerto Rico, Varela inspired to culinary ambitions at an early age, thanks to cooking lessons from her mother and grandmother. The youngest of five, Varela was also the first in her family to attend college in mainland U.S., graduating with a culinary arts degree from the renowned Johnson & Wales University in Providence.

Eschewing the competition often found within the industry, Varela believes “a happy kitchen is reflected in the dishes brought to every table.” Her aim is to “create a family atmosphere in Rice, both with the front and back of the house,” and to reestablish the signature restaurant as a comfortable gathering place for locals and tourists alike. Varela has also begun to leave her distinctive mark on W’s in-room dining and banquet menus as well.