Denise Portillo

Executive Chef Portillo creates a vibrant dining experience that tantalizes the senses with a special attention to mouth-watering flavor and presentation. She designs and delivers all menus as an expression of love and gratitude with the goal of securing a successful event where all can relax and enjoy. Chef Portillo always aims to make room for dessert!

Chef Portillo has devoted her life to her two passions - mastering and refining the art of cooking, and educating her fans about how to enjoy complex International organic cuisine in a healthy way.  "My mission is to create a delicious culinary experience with event décor that tantalizes the senses," Portillo says.  With a degree in Culinary Arts from the famous Le Cordon Bleu - California School of Culinary Arts, Chef Portillo has studied and practiced the intricacies of international organic cuisine. Widely recognized in culinary circles as an emerging international organic cuisine thought leader, Chef Portillo was recently named Culinary Woman of the Year by the National Latina Business Women Association, Los Angeles.

Based in Whittier, Chef Portillo is the CEO of The Bella Restaurant Group, Inc., which operates Il Bella Events and Bella Cafe. Chef Portillo's clients include the Latin Grammys, Los Angeles City Councilman Jose Huizar, Goya Foods, Taylor Primero, El Grito, Nike, Sony, ABC Studio, Walt Disney, Farmers Insurance, Sony/BMG records, Alejandro Fernandez, The Axis Agency, Vicente Fernandez, Live Nation, Amphitheatre, Bravo Station, All Access Entertainment, Toyota, Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, Magazine, Roberto Cavalli, Bulgari, Absolut Vodka, and many more top brands.

Chef Portillo now owns and operates the Forikin Good Cafe in Whittier California