At Fine Dining Table, we are excited to share an inspiring interview with Jacobo Bonilla, chef and founder of Débora Restaurante, a culinary gem in Bogotá that is redefining Colombian gastronomy. With a concept that blends local roots with innovation, Débora has captured the attention of fine dining enthusiasts. Below, Jacobo shares his beginnings, his vision, and the elements that make Débora an unmissable culinary destination in Colombia.
How do you introduce yourself and how did you get started in the culinary world? Where did the idea of Débora Restaurante come from?
My name is Jacobo Bonilla, chef and founder of Débora Restaurante. Since I was young, I grew up in a family where cooking was a way to express love and tradition. I decided to formally study gastronomy, and after years of learning in various restaurants, I felt it was time to create my own culinary space. That’s how Débora was born—a restaurant that seeks to connect the local with the global and pay tribute to Colombian cuisine through fresh, high-quality ingredients.
What is Bogotá missing to become a globally recognized culinary destination?
Bogotá has incredible potential to be a reference in the international culinary scene. However, what it lacks is a deeper curation of our products and local producers. If we support small farmers and use authentic ingredients, Bogotá can position itself as a unique and authentic culinary destination. It’s crucial for restaurants in Bogotá to value the quality and authenticity of our local products.
How do you define Débora’s culinary approach and how does it contribute to the development of gastronomy in Colombia?
At Débora, we focus on innovation and the use of native products. We are dedicated to researching and highlighting ingredients such as herbs, flowers, and local vegetables, which not only enrich our dishes but also celebrate Colombia’s biodiversity. Our goal is to contribute to the development of Colombian gastronomy by offering a unique experience that also strengthens local producers. In the future, we want Débora to continue evolving without losing its essence, with the dream of becoming a reference for excellence and quality.
What makes Débora different from other restaurants in Bogotá and Colombia?
What really sets Débora apart is our attention to detail and the synergy between cooking and beverages. Valentino, our beverage director, and I work together to ensure that each dish and each drink complement each other perfectly. Débora focuses on providing not only a high-quality gastronomic experience but also personalized service that makes our guests feel at home.
What would you say to those who haven’t yet had the chance to visit Débora?
I invite everyone to visit Débora and experience our tasting menu, which is a true representation of the best of Bogotá and Colombian cuisine. Each dish is designed to take our guests on a journey of unique flavors. We look forward to welcoming you with open arms to enjoy a culinary experience you won’t forget.
English 
Spanish