Hilton The Hague’s restaurant, Blue Blood, is already known for its bold flavors and stylish atmosphere. But ask those in the know, and they will tell you that the real secret behind its success is the man in the kitchen: Chef Luis Rojas.
Originally from Peru, Rojas has cooked his way across the globe, from Lima to the Middle East, where he made a name for himself at the Hilton on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi. Trained in Lima and at the prestigious Cordon Bleu School—an institution that has become the epicenter of great cuisine in Latin America—he has mastered both classical techniques and the art of Latin flavor. His arrival in The Hague marks a new chapter, one that combines fine dining with vibrant culinary traditions.
Now, Chef Rojas is preparing something special: the First Latin American Food Festival. Far from a traditional dinner, this evening promises a celebration of culture and cuisine. Rojas describes the event as unfolding in waves of dishes rather than in courses. Each wave, he explains, will be “a feast to the eye and a true taste sensation.”
Meeting the chef in person, one is struck by his warm and approachable nature. A big, amiable figure, he talks about food with contagious enthusiasm, describing each creation with vivid detail and obvious pride. “For me, food is more than taste; it is memory, tradition, and celebration. Through this festival, I want to share the warmth and spirit of Latin America with every guest,” he says.
The evening will feature an extensive buffet that captures the essence of Latin cuisine: colorful, flavorful, and diverse. Guests can expect a festive atmosphere, dishes that tell the story of a region, and the unmistakable passion of a chef who has devoted his life to celebrating his culinary heritage. Adding to the significance of the evening, many Latin American ambassadors will be present in support of the festival. Their attendance underlines the cultural importance of the event and highlights the strong ties between the Latin American community and The Hague’s international audience. The gathering promises to be as much a diplomatic celebration as a culinary one.
H.E. Mr Agustin Vazquez Gomez, Ambassador of El Salvador, said: “It is a true pleasure to celebrate this occasion and the opportunity to share with our friends in The Hague the vibrant and diverse flavours of Latin America. I am especially delighted that Salvadorian cuisine will be represented, offering a taste of our heritage and our pride. I warmly congratulate Chef Luis Rojas for his inspiring initiative, which brings us closer together through the universal language of gastronomy. This event is not only a culinary journey, but also a bridge that connects cultures, strengthens friendships, and celebrates the richness of our Latin American identity.”
The Ambassador of Uruguay, H.E. Dr Alvaro Gonzalez Otero expresed: “This is a valuable gastronomic initiative that promotes the social and cultural values of the region. According to Chef Rojas, the event will feature traditional dishes from Uruguay as well as authentic Uruguayan music.”
Dining at Blue Blood during this festival will not simply be a meal—it will be a journey. One that begins in Lima, travels across Latin America, and arrives in The Hague for an unforgettable night.
