Juan Francisco Picco is the lodge’s Head Chef, bringing creativity, energy, and international experience to every meal served at the table. Born in Buenos Aires, Juan developed his passion for cooking at an early age and later trained professionally at the renowned Gato Dumas culinary school.

At just 25 years old, he has already built impressive international experience, spending two years in Dubai refining his culinary skills while working in renowned restaurants. Those experiences helped shape his style in the kitchen, combining technique, creativity, and a deep appreciation for quality ingredients.

Juan especially loves cooking meats and preparing pizzas in the lodge’s clay oven — a guest favorite and one of the highlights of the dining experience. Fluent in English and naturally outgoing, he enjoys connecting with guests from around the world and hearing their stories and life experiences around the dinner table.

Beyond the kitchen, Juan is a true artist at heart. He loves painting, singing, playing music, and creating tattoos, bringing creativity into everything he does. Patagonia’s outdoor lifestyle also inspires him deeply, and he especially enjoys the peaceful silence and star-filled nights surrounding the lodge.

Known for his contagious smile, positive energy, and warm personality, Juan creates a welcoming atmosphere both in and out of the kitchen. Guests especially enjoy the moments when he personally presents each meal at dinner, sharing his enthusiasm and passion for food. His leadership, dedication, and remarkable work ethic make him an essential part of the lodge experience.