Chef Ed Reynoso

Executive Chef/Owner

Ed Reynoso was born in Washington DC and has resided in the DMV ever since. Ed's mom Sabina Gutierrez was his biggest influence, and attributes her for teaching him how to work hard and take pride in everything you do. Ed's mom was an immigrant from Peru, My grandmother from my dad's side was Dominican and Cuban and was the main inspiration behind the food. Ed Reynoso is a native of Beltsville, Maryland, who began his culinary journey in high school, working part-time at the American Café.

Ed's exceptional performance as a defensive tackle in high school earned him a full football scholarship to Hampton University, Virginia. However, an injury in his first semester abruptly ended his football career and scholarship.

Resilient, Ed returned to Maryland to pursue a culinary career. He quickly rose to kitchen supervisor at Outback Steakhouse and then worked at Jasper's in Greenbelt. His breakthrough came with a chef internship at the renowned Watergate Hotel, followed by a sous-chef position at Timothy Dean Restaurant and Bar in the St. Regis Hotel, Washington, DC.

Ed later moved to New York to work at Victor's Café, where he developed a passion for Cuban cuisine. Returning to Maryland, he worked at Ray's The Steaks, Ray's Hell Burger, and Tommy Douglas Conference Center before becoming the executive chef at Old Line Bistro in Beltsville. There, he earned accolades for making it Prince George's County's Best Restaurant, Best Happy Hour, and Best Burger.

With extensive experience and leadership skills, Ed co-founded Mad Cow Grill, Mad Cow Grill 2 and the upscale concept BLVCK COW, restaurants that are doing very well. He now embarks on his new concept and endeavor embracing his rich cultural heritage, blending Hispanic, Afro, and indigenous island influences with Celia's Cuban Cuisine and Mojito Bar.

The Name "Celia"

I chose the name Celia to pay homage to Celia Cruz, the Queen of Salsa. Growing up I remember listening to her on the radio in my household. Her unique voice is unmistakable and could never be confused with anyone else. She has had an incredible career with many Grammys and nominations to many music awards and achievements. Celia Cruz is also the first Afro Latina to be featured on the U.S. Quarter. She is my inspiration to my new restaurant and I will dazzle the residents of Howard County with authentic Cuban Cuisine.