Juan Manuel Barrientos -Chef-Entrepreneur

The chef of emotions, senses and peace.

Juan Manuel Barrientos Valencia, known in the gastronomic world as “Juanma” and on social networks as @juanmaelcielo, was born in Medellín on June 16, 1983. He is a father, cook, businessman, entrepreneur, lecturer and peace leader with more than thirteen restaurants, bars and a hotel. He is the creator and founder of the Elcielo restaurant chain (Medellín, Bogotá, Miami and Washington, D. C.), as well as La Sere (mediterranean), Cuon (Asian), Kaime (vegan), Elcielo Classic, elcielo Hotel (Medellín), AO (Asian Bogotá), Shibari (bar), El Navegante (bar), Aguafresca (Mexican restaurant in partnership with Chef Édgar Núñez) and Cerdología. Juanma has great influence and thousands of followers on social networks.

He is the first chef in history to lead a Colombian Cuisine restaurant, elcielo Washington, D. C., awarded a Michelin Star in April 2021.

At the age of 34, he was invited as a lecturer by the former president of the United States, Barack Obama, to the World Entrepreneurship Summit, one of the most important entrepreneurship meetings in the world. He even provides advice to companies on creativity and innovation, supporting the redesign of the DNA ofimportant companies.

He has been recognized as the youngest chef in Latin America's 50 Best for three consecutive times and in 2016 he was part of the exclusive list of The World’s Best Chef.

In addition, Juanma leads the Glocal Food Fest, a gastronomic and cultural event in Medellín that has three editions. Glocal is a platform to highlight those people and products that give life to our Colombian identity from planting to serving the products on the table.

He started his Foundation eleven years ago, based on non-violence, where he trains soldiers wounded in combat, ex-guerrillas, Indigenous people and victims, sharing his work with more than seven Nobel Peace Prize winners. elcielo Restaurant was selected as a case study by INALDE Business School of the University of La Sabana, a success story written by Ernesto Barrera Duque, professor of Innovation, and published by IESE of Barcelona, Spain, one of the best business schools of the world.

In 2018 he published his first book called "The Recipe of Success," where he presents experiences – and the resulting knowledge – that led to his business and personal success. “The Recipe of Success” has sold more than 8,000 copies and since July 2019, it is available to all those residing in the United States.

During 2020, Juanma opened two more restaurants with the opening of elcielo Washington, D. C., in the Union Market District of the American capital and AO, a restaurant specialized in sushi in Bogotá.

elcielo opened its doors in Washington in September with two menus: tasting as is the tradition in elcielo and à la carte, betting on a more dynamic service.

In turn, the construction of the elcielo Hotel in Medellín, in El Poblado, began in March 2019 and began operations in March 2021. It is the first experience of Juanma and the elcielo Organization within the hotel sector with a project that seeks to bring the sensory and memorable experience from elcielo Restaurant to a unique boutique hotel in Colombia.

Frequently Asked Questions FAQ

Discover everything about the luxury experience at Elcielo Hotel. Here you will find information about our exclusive suites, personalized services, and unique experiences designed to make your stay unforgettable.

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  • Book Your Stay

    How can I make a reservation at Elcielo Hotel?

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    You can easily make your reservation online through our website. Simply click here to access our booking system, or contact us at the reception mobile +57 304 336 28 73 or our customer service line +57 (604) 4482396.

  • Can I modify or cancel my reservation at Elcielo Hotel?

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    Yes, you can request changes or cancellations directly with Elcielo Hotel if your reservation was made with us. Please review our deadlines and cancellation policy, as requests made less than 5 days before your arrival may incur a fee. Contact us to manage your request. If your reservation was made through an OTA or other sales channels, any modifications must be processed directly through the OTA.

  • Suites & Services

    Which rooms and suites are available at Elcielo Hotel?

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    Elcielo Hotel offers four types of exclusive rooms and luxury suites, featuring sophisticated design, king-size beds, and premium amenities. Perfect for all travelers and couples, our suites are designed to make your stay warm and memorable. Discover our suites here.

  • Does Elcielo Hotel have restaurants and offer gastronomic services?

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    Yes, Elcielo Hotel offers three unique culinary experiences: enjoy a tasting menu crafted by Michelin-starred Chef Juan Manuel Barrientos at Elcielo Medellín Restaurant designed to awaken all your senses. Delight in authentic Italian tradition at La Sere by Juanma. or savor international cuisine infused with local flavors at El Bistró by Juanma. Be sure to book in advance here..

  • Is airport transportation available at Elcielo Hotel?

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    Yes, we offer private transportation service at an additional cost. Please book in advance through our Experiences mobile line at +57 302 264 74 06 or our 24/7 customer service line at +57 (604) 4482396.

  • Experiences & Where to Find Us

    What unique activities or experiences does Elcielo Hotel offer?

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    Enjoy private tours and experiences designed for discerning travelers. Request a quote and book in advance through our Experiences line at +57 302 264 74 06.

  • What is the location of Elcielo Hotel and why is it special?

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    Elcielo Hotel is nestled in the exclusive Astorga area of El Poblado, Medellín, offering a privileged and secure location near restaurants, art, shopping, and major attractions.

Exclusive On-Site Dining

We want your stay to be unforgettable. Discover our exclusive gastronomic route, crafted to offer you an exceptional experience.

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