Raven James Bautista, is the Head Chef at Mirabelle’s in Anguilla. A 30-year-old native of the Philippines, he has called Anguilla home for the past three years. His journey to the island was prompted by his father, now a proud Anguillan after 15+ years here – who, along with his wife and 2 brothers, welcomed him to their adopted homeland.

Hailing from the bustling streets of Manila, Chef Bautista’s upbringing instilled in him a deep sense of responsibility, particularly in caring for his siblings while his father sought opportunities abroad. His unwavering discipline, combined with a fervent passion for the culinary arts, propelled him through his academic pursuits and culinary training. Chef Bautista loves competing and received several accolades at university.

– Holland America Line Culinary Skills Development Program Highest Score: 90.70% (2018)

– Bronze Medalist in the Chef Wars Classical Asia (Student Division) at the 10th Annual HRAB-New (2016)

– Silver Medalist in the Chef Wars (Student Division) at the 11th Annual HRAB Classical-French (2015)

– Silver Medalist in the Soup Kitchen-Vegetables from the Valley (Professional Division) at the 13th Annual HRAB (2014)

After completing his university education, Chef Bautista honed his skills at Le Chef at The Manor Hotel, a fine dining restaurant in the serene city of Baguio and eventually ventured onto a cruise ship, to challenge himself in those grueling conditions, before returning to the Philippines as Sous Chef at Lafayette Luxury Suites Hotel, a boutique hotel back in Baguio. Amidst the challenges of the pandemic, he seized the opportunity to join his family in Anguilla, eager to further enrich his culinary experience in the Caribbeans culinary capital.

Beyond the kitchen, Chef Bautista is a multifaceted individual. He has a passion for learning and appreciates any opportunity to expand his skillset and meet new people. He is an avid online content creator and is a drummer for his local church. He finds solace in fishing, and embraces the serene island lifestyle. He and his fiancée, Ms. Gemma Federis, will exchange vows in August.

When asked what his daily mantra was he responded “there are no secrets to success, it is all about having mise en place”