Fernando Marulanda
Executive Chef
Executive Chef Fernado Marulanda brings a wealth of diverse culinary experiences to Delray Beach’s downtown waterfront restaurant, Deck 84. His passion for crafting unforgettable dining experiences is deeply rooted in the belief that food should invoke cherished memories.
Armed with an Associate of Occupational Studies Degree in Culinary Arts, Pastry Arts, and Restaurant Management from the prestigious NY Restaurant School, alongside his academic exploration in Forensic Psychology at John Jay College City University of New York, Chef Marulanda's culinary philosophy embodies a blend of culinary expertise and a deep understanding of human behavior.
Marulanda's career in the culinary world began in New York City in the 1990s with a position at the famed 3-Michelin-Starred Per Se, under the mentorship of the renowned Thomas Keller. In the early 2000’s he ventured to South Florida, assuming the role of Executive Chef at the former Dubliner in Boca Raton and Palm Beach Gardens.
Returning to New York City, Marulanda served as the Chef de Cuisine at the esteemed Tavern on the Green until its closure in 2009. Subsequently, he assumed the position of Partner & Executive Chef at Alouette French Bistro for a year, before taking on the significant role of Corporate Executive Chef at the Tweedy Gomez Group from 2010 to 2016. In this capacity, he provided guidance to nine distinct properties, including a commissary kitchen and two farms, while overseeing a team of accomplished chefs. Following this, Marulanda held notable Corporate Executive Chef positions with The Merrin Group and the esteemed Charlie Palmer Collective in New York City. Eventually, he returned to South Florida to serve as the Executive Chef at the French restaurant, La Goule on Palm Beach Island before joining the team at Deck 84, in October 2023.
As Executive Chef at Deck 84, Chef Marulanda aims to infuse a fresh perspective, unwavering consistency, and a progressive outlook. Using local and seasonal ingredients as a foundation, his culinary philosophy revolves around the principles of simplicity and innovation, creating familiar flavors and dishes that strive to evoke nostalgic memories for the guests.
Beyond the confines of the kitchen, Chef Marulanda enjoys local activities, sports, music, and imparting knowledge through teaching and mentoring. He currently resides in West Palm Beach.