Rancho La Puerta, North America’s original fitness resort and spa, is excited to announce the appointment of Head Chef Vivian Mercado. She will usher in a new era for The Ranch’s esteemed culinary program, uniting authenticity and wellness through a shared passion for seasonal, locally inspired cuisine.
Complementing Executive Chef Romero’s approach, Chef Mercado brings a vibrant Baja sensibility and deep respect for the land to her role as head chef at La Cocina Que Canta, Rancho La Puerta’s celebrated cooking school on property. A graduate of the Culinary School at the University of Baja California (UABC) in Ensenada, Mercado’s early career took her through the region’s diverse culinary landscape, from artisanal kitchens and wine country ventures to specialty coffee and bread-making.
After joining Rancho La Puerta as part of the Tierra Alegre Juice Bar team, Mercado quickly rose through the ranks to sous chef and now leads La Cocina Que Canta. Her dishes embody the beauty of Baja’s local ingredients, blending nourishment and creativity.
Chef Mercado brings Rancho La Puerta’s enduring philosophy to life, celebrating the connection between food, health, and togetherness.
