Chef Juan Gadi
Executive Chef | Private Chef in Ubud, Bali
š Ubud, Bali, Indonesia | Originally from the Philippines
š§ juanmanuelgadi@gmail.com
š± +63 917 710 0129
š Facebook: Juan Gadi
š· Instagram: @juangadi
š LinkedIn: Juan Manuel Gadi
About Chef Juan Gadi
Chef Juan Manuel Gadi is a Filipino Executive Chef and Private Chef based in Ubud, Bali, Indonesia, with over a decade of experience in culinary leadership, business management, and hospitality innovation.
Originally from the Philippines, Chef Juan brings a deep passion for Filipino cuisine, transforming traditional flavors into refined yet approachable dining experiences for both local and international guests.
With a strong foundation in leadership and entrepreneurship, he is known not only for his culinary creativity but also for his ability to build sustainable food concepts, mentor teams, and create meaningful community-driven dining experiences.
Current Role
Executive Chef & Co-Founder
Ā Kilig Filipino Warung, Bali
October 2024 ā Present
Chef Juan leads the culinary vision and overall kitchen operations of Kilig Filipino Warung, a Filipino restaurant concept rooted in storytelling, authenticity, and heart.
His responsibilities include:
Translating Filipino heritage dishes into elevated yet comforting plates
Menu development and seasonal innovation
Kitchen operations management and quality control
Team leadership, chef training, and performance mentoring
Strategic sourcing and cost management
Food safety standards and operational excellence
Brand collaboration, event curation, and community-driven hospitality
As Co-Founder, he also plays a vital role in shaping Kiligās identity in Baliās vibrant food sceneāintroducing Filipino flavors to a global audience while maintaining cultural authenticity.
Professional Background
Ā Chef Juan is:
A graduate of Professional Culinary & Pastry Arts from the Center for Asian Culinary Studies (2018ā2019)
A Bachelor of Science in Nursing graduate (2002ā2006), bringing discipline, structure, and strong health & safety awareness into his culinary career
Culinary & Leadership Experience
President & CEO ā Backyard Burgers Corp (2012ā2020)
Chef Juan successfully scaled a homegrown burger concept into multiple branches across cities. As CEO, he managed strategic planning, operations, financial oversight, corporate governance, and brand expansion.
He also led a community feeding initiative benefiting nearly 500 undernourished school children, demonstrating his strong commitment to social responsibility.
Chef Instructor ā Center for Asian Culinary Studies (2021ā2022)
Post-pandemic, Chef Juan joined the academe, mentoring aspiring chefs and implementing updated health protocols in kitchen laboratories while fostering creativity and discipline.
Restaurant & HR Consultant ā Harana Surf Resort (2016ā2018)
Provided professional guidance on kitchen operations, design, HR structuring, and policy development. The resort was later recognized as the first labor-compliant resort on Siargao Island.
Owner ā SKALER Bistro / Cater King (2017ā2021)
Developed innovative Filipino barbecue buffet concepts and adapted to pandemic conditions through digital catering operations.
Culinary Philosophy
Ā Chef Juanās cooking philosophy centers on:
Authentic Filipino flavors with modern refinement
Seasonal and event-driven menu innovation
Cross-cultural culinary adaptation
Storytelling through food
Sustainable and community-based hospitality
His training includes advanced food safety, menu optimization, food styling, fermentation and preservation techniques, and plant-based culinary practices, including Raw Food Vegan courses in Bali (2023).
Core Strengths
- Filipino Cuisine Specialist
Menu Development & Innovation
Executive Kitchen Leadership
Cost & Budget Management
Team Training & Mentorship
Quality Control & Food Safety
Event Catering & Banqueting
Business Development & Brand Strategy
Cross-Cultural Culinary Practices
Private Chef Services in Bali
As a Private Chef in Bali, Chef Juan offers:
Curated Filipino tasting menus
Intimate private dining experiences
Cultural food storytelling dinners
Event catering and custom menu development
Collaborative pop-ups and culinary events
His approach blends warmth, heritage, and refined techniqueābringing the heart of Filipino hospitality to every table.