El Cielo*

A word from

Pedro Mendoza Chadid

"Krug is a legacy, a champagne that begins where others end; a glass of any Krug Édition is a unique and unforgettable experience."

Pedro Mendoza Chadid (Corporate Communication Officer)

About the Ambassade

El Cielo, with locations in Miami and Washington, D.C., offers a modern Colombian tasting menu crafted by Chef Juan Manuel Barrientos. Both establishments have earned Michelin stars, with D.C. receiving its first in 2021 and Miami in 2022. The restaurant is renowned for its immersive dining experiences, such as the “chocotherapy” dessert and the “Tree of Life” bread service. El Cielo emphasizes Colombian ingredients and storytelling in its cuisine. El Cielo Miami is situated in the heart of Brickell's financial district with a terrace offering a wonderful view of the Miami River. El Cielo Washington, D.C., is located in the heart of NoMa’s Union Market District, a 10-minute drive from the United States Capitol. El Cielo was the first Colombian restaurant in the world to be included in the Michelin Guide. El Cielo's modern cuisine is one of a kind. It was created by Juanma Barrientos, inspired by the flavours of his country, reimagined with innovation and creativity, making the El Cielo experience unique and fun.

About the Krug Lover

Pedro Mendoza Chadid, originally from Colombia, serves as the Corporate Communication Officer for Elcielo Hospitality Group. Since 2016, he has overseen communications and operations across Elcielo’s locations in Bogotá, Medellín, Miami, and Washington, D.C. Mendoza also contributes to the Elcielo Foundation, supporting victims of Colombia’s civil conflict. In 2023, he became a Krug Lover, integrating Krug Champagne into Elcielo’s dining experience. With ancestry from 11 ethnic groups across four continents, he considers himself a universal citizen. He loves avant-garde cuisine and fine dining, but comfort food and the traditional taste of home are what he is most passionate about. He admires elegant French techniques, spicy Indian flavours, the simplicity of the Mediterranean and the Middle East, and the richness of Colombian fruits and vegetables.

How would you describe your culinary philosophy?

I describe our menu as a fun luxury. It's not stuffy or rigid, but a fluid experience.

Can you describe any parallels you see between cooking and music?

I see myself as the conductor of the restaurant, working alongside another conductor--the head chef.

What are your sources of inspiration?

Every day, I am inspired by the opportunity to uplift and support victims of Colombia's civil conflict. Our mission is rooted in more than just sharing delicious food--it's about honoring the resilience of the Colombian people. The rich culture, the stories behind each dish, and the chance to give back to the communities that shape our culinary identity fuel everything we do. That deeper purpose is what drives me.

What is the greatest lesson you have learnt in or outside the kitchen?

Take pride in who you are.

How would you describe yourself in three words?

Culinary Global Citizen

What makes you a Krug Lover?

What first caught my attention was Krug's heritage, its exceptional craftsmanship, and the quality of its bubbles – but it was Krug Grande Cuvée’s unique and inimitable flavour that won me over.

Why do you love Krug?

At El Cielo, we love to pair sweet corn arepa with sour cream and caviar, served alongside any Édition of Krug Grande Cuvée. Recently, it was extraordinary with Krug Grande Cuvée 172^ème Édition.

Krug Ambassades