Chef Wanda Wray
Early Life & Culinary Passion
Chef Wanda Wray is a renowned Puerto Rican chef, cookbook author, and entrepreneur known for her deep passion for traditional Boricua cuisine. Born and raised in Puerto Rico, she grew up surrounded by the rich flavors, aromas, and culinary traditions that define Cocina Criolla. Inspired by her family’s home-cooked meals and the island’s diverse food culture, she developed an early appreciation for authentic Caribbean flavors.
From a young age, Wanda was fascinated by the artistry of cooking, learning cherished family recipes passed down through generations. She honed her skills by experimenting with local ingredients, refining traditional techniques, and discovering new ways to bring Puerto Rican gastronomy to life.
Culinary Career & Cookbook Success
Driven by her passion for preserving and sharing Puerto Rican cuisine, Chef Wanda Wray launched her culinary career, blending her love for food with a desire to educate and inspire. Her journey led her to write and publish two bestselling cookbooks:
📖 Puerto Rico en su Cocina – A beautifully crafted collection of traditional Puerto Rican recipes, featuring step-by-step instructions for iconic dishes such as mofongo, pernil, arroz con gandules, bacalaitos, alcapurrias, and coquito. This cookbook captures the soul of Puerto Rico’s culinary heritage, making it accessible to home cooks worldwide.
📖 Cocina Criolla by Chef Wanda Wray – A tribute to authentic Puerto Rican home cooking, highlighting the deep-rooted traditions of the island’s cuisine. This book serves as a culinary guide for those looking to master classic Puerto Rican dishes while understanding the history and culture behind them.
Her cookbooks have been widely celebrated, serving as essential kitchen companions for food lovers, home cooks, and professional chefs seeking to embrace the flavors of Cocina Criolla.
Entrepreneurship & The Foodie Store
Beyond her work as an author, Chef Wanda Wray is a successful e-commerce entrepreneur, owning and managing The Foodie Store by Chef Wanda Wray. Her store features a unique selection of custom foodie-themed products, including:
✅ Personalized kitchen and home accessories
✅ Food-inspired blankets, mugs, and apparel
✅ Gifts for food lovers, chefs, and home cooks
She also extends her passion for food beyond the kitchen by curating products that celebrate the joy of cooking, dining, and sharing meals with loved ones.
Culinary Philosophy & Inspiration
Chef Wanda Wray believes that food is more than sustenance—it is an experience, a memory, and a cultural bridge. She shares a deep connection with the late Anthony Bourdain, finding common ground in their mutual appreciation for food as a storytelling medium. Like Bourdain, she sees food as a way to bring people together, foster connections, and preserve traditions.
Her work is dedicated to ensuring that the flavors of Puerto Rico continue to thrive in kitchens worldwide, allowing future generations to experience, celebrate, and pass down the vibrant dishes of the island.
Where to Find Chef Wanda Wray’s Work
Chef Wanda Wray’s cookbooks and foodie products are available on major e-commerce platforms, including:
📌 Amazon, Etsy, eBay, Barnes & Noble and Walmart
She continues to expand her brand, reaching new audiences through her love for food, culture, and community. Whether through her cookbooks, online store, or engaging with fellow food enthusiasts, she remains committed to spreading the rich flavors of Puerto Rico to kitchens worldwide.
🎉 Join Chef Wanda Wray in celebrating the beauty of Puerto Rican cuisine! 🌴🍽️✨