Bartenders’ Brawl Local Judges
Abraham Urdaneta
Abraham is a mixologist and hospitality entrepreneur in Aruba. With over 11 years of experience, he is certified in mixology, herbalism, and guest service by the AHLA (American Hotel and Lodging Association).
Abraham has represented Aruba internationally at the Tiki Cocktail Competition in Florida, and was a contestant in the Ultimate Awards 2024/Best Rum Bartender in Spain, competing among 25 international professionals.
As a bartender-trainer and mixology consultant, Abraham has collaborated with high-end restaurants on the island and in Curacao, helping design exciting and unique cocktail menus. Currently the co-owner of Liquid Chef Gastro Bar, the island’s first tiki bar, he combines conceptual mixology with local flavors and haute cuisine techniques.
Jessika Theysen
Jessika’s culinary adventure began in the Netherlands, where she found herself immersed in the refined world of a 2-star Michelin restaurant, starting as a humble waiter-helper. She was captivated by the intricate dance of flavors and the artistry of fine dining, knowing she found her passion.
Over three years, she honed her skills and knowledge, rising to the position of restaurant manager and head sommelier, overseeing every aspect of the dining experience, from menu development to guest satisfaction. Later, she was recruited to open a new restaurant in Amsterdam, Restaurant Daalder, leading a dynamic team, which was rewarded for its commitment with its first Michelin star.
Longing to go home, Jessika decided to return to Aruba, accepting a position at Infini Aruba. It was here that she pushed the boundaries of mixology, crafting cocktails with homemade cordials and spirits, tailoring each drink to individual preferences. Currently on the food & beverage team of the Ritz-Carlton, Aruba, Jessika oversees the culinary offerings and service standards at this premier resort property.
Iron Chef Local Judges
Olivier Falchi
French-born Chef Olivier is a member of the French Culinary Academy and a member of its chef association, Les Toques Blanches International. He has been the Executive Chef at the Hilton Aruba since 2020, leading the resort’s culinary team and overseeing eight food and beverage outlets, including the famed Sunset Grille, currently undergoing spectacular renovations.
Chef Olivier’s culinary career also took him from France to Uruguay, Argentina, French Polynesia, and Switzerland, where he worked at 5-star Relais et Chateaux properties.
Chef Olivier authored a cookbook, La Cuisine D ’Olivier, and participated regularly in food festivals and regional gastronomic events, designed an airline menu for Air France, specialized in molecular gastronomy, and has judged a few culinary showdowns along the way.
Aldwin Donata
The popular local chef started his career at the University of Central Florida, obtaining a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry. He soon discovered that the kitchen makes him happier and signed up for a culinary arts degree at EPI Hospitality in Aruba. He credits his profound knowledge of chemistry with his understanding of people and food, and today he is an accomplished hospitality professional serving as Executive Chef at Holiday Inn Resort Aruba. The chef is skilled in leading the resort’s culinary teams in seven busy food outlets, directing all kitchen operations and keeping guests happy with delicious offerings around the clock.
Chef Donata is credited with the creation of the outstanding menu of the latest Holiday Inn culinary success, Agave, serving Mexican food creatively interpreted by the chef and his team.
