Commissioner Vicki L. Lopez Closes Hispanic Heritage Month by Honoring Chef Felipe Perez Montero with District Commendation

Miami-Dade County Commissioner Vicki L. Lopez (District 5) celebrated the conclusion of Hispanic Heritage Month on Wednesday, October 14th, 2026, by presenting renowned Spanish chef Felipe Perez Montero with a District Commendation in recognition of his distinguished culinary career and contributions to Miami's culinary community. The recognition took place at his restaurant, Jamón Ibérico Pata Negra, during a community meet and greet that brought together residents, local business owners, and neighbors.

Born in Ávila, Spain, Chef Perez Montero has dedicated decades to sharing the flavors and traditions of Spanish cuisine. His culinary career has taken him from Madrid to Liverpool and Caracas, as well as aboard Carnival Cruise Line ships, before eventually bringing his talent and expertise to Miami’s restaurant scene.

“I am incredibly grateful to Commissioner Lopez and Miami-Dade County for this recognition,” said Chef Felipe Pérez Montero. “As a Spaniard, it has been an honor to share our food and culture with the Miami-Dade community for the past 30 years.”

Throughout his career, Chef Perez Montero has served as chef and owner of several restaurants including Cervantes, Casa Juancho, Las Cuevas de Sacramonte, and Jamón Ibérico Pata Negra. Known for his expertise in traditional Spanish gastronomy, he has helped introduce generations of diners to the regional dishes, techniques, and culinary traditions of Spain. His accomplishments also include winning the Rice Festival at Cervantes.

“My Spanish heritage has always been such a special part of who I am, so being able to close out Hispanic Heritage Month by honoring Chef Felipe Perez Montero, someone who has dedicated his life to sharing the traditions and flavors of Spain, was truly a pleasure,” said Commissioner Vicki Lopez. “Food has such a special way of bringing people together and keeping our traditions alive. Chef Felipe has spent his life sharing the flavors of Spain with others, and we're fortunate that he chose to bring his talent and passion to Miami. It was a pleasure to recognize him and celebrate everything he has contributed to our community.”

Throughout Hispanic Heritage Month, Commissioner Lopez emphasized that while our Hispanic community represents many different countries, each with its own customs, food, music, and history, there is so much more that brings us together than sets us apart. The gathering at Jamón Ibérico Pata Negra was a fitting way to close out the month, celebrating our shared heritage, the traditions that connect us, and the local businesses that help keep those traditions alive.

Commissioner Lopez remains committed to supporting local businesses, celebrating the diverse heritage of District 5, and creating opportunities for residents to connect with their County government.

Left to Right: Commissioner Vicki L. Lopez presenting a District Commendation to Spanish chef Felipe Perez Montero;
Commissioner Vicki L. Lopez with residents. (Photos by District 5 Office/Miami-Dade County)