WHO IS

CHEF JENNY

Chef Jennifer Ann Herrera, known as Chef Jenny, is the heart behind Vida Rica Culinary Services, based in Dorado, Puerto Rico. Jenny’s love for cooking began in her childhood in the Bronx, where she spent weekends at her grandmother Hilda’s catering hall, “The Tropicana,” and party planning business, “The Party House.” Inspired by her Nuyorican mother’s transformative cooking, Jenny learned early on the power of food to uplift and comfort.

Chef Jenny’s career launched in New York City, where she grew through apprenticeships with culinary icons like renowned mentors, including Chef Aaron Sanchez, Zarela Martinez, Jonathan Waxman, and Gastón Acurio, to name a few. Through apprenticeships at prestigious Michelin and Pellegrino star restaurants around the world like Jean-Georges, Barbuto, Laduree, and Astrid y Gastón. Jenny honed her skills and learned to combine culinary artistry with philanthropy, engaging in charity events across NYC.

At twenty-four, Jenny founded her first business, “Truffle and Basil Private Chef Group,” and a boutique culinary school, “The Blue Burner,” which allowed her to bring unique dining experiences to the Tri-state area. She later graduated from The Culinary Institute of America and The French Culinary Institute with degrees in Culinary Baking and Pastry Arts, solidifying her expertise.

In 2017, Jenny relocated to Puerto Rico with her then-fiancé, now husband, Alex. When Hurricane Maria struck, she volunteered as a first responder, helping to establish and oversee 22 satellite kitchens that produced over 3.5 million meals across the island. Working under the direction of Chef José Andrés and World Central Kitchen, Jenny was instrumental in providing disaster relief through food, reaffirming her commitment to community and resilience.

Today, Chef Jenny is a passionate advocate for sustainability and social impact. She actively supports charities like World Central Kitchen, the Clinton Global Initiative, and the National Women’s Business Council. Jenny’s daily practices of meditation, yoga, and journaling keep her grounded as she balances her life with her husband, two sons, and their dog Cocoa Channel. Whether cooking with her kids, hiking through the rainforest, or mentoring culinary students, Chef Jenny serves with a heart rooted in compassion, culture, and community.