Fernanda grew up surrounded by amazing women cooks in Chile, but it wasn’t until her junior year at Brandeis University that she decided to pursue a career in the culinary world. Upon graduation, she enrolled in the Culinary Arts program at Boston University. She had the privilege of learning from renowned chef Jacque Pepin as well as some of the best chefs in Boston. After receiving her culinary training, Fernanda stayed at BU and completed a Masters in Gastronomy and obtained a Certificate in wine studies from the Elizabeth Bishop Wine Resource Center. She then joined 51 Lincoln and worked all the stations until she became chef de cuisine. In 2012, Fernanda was named top 30 under the age of 30 in the Boston restaurant scene by Zagat.

In 2013, Fernanda started the cooking school at 51 Lincoln, which she ran until September of that year, when she decided it was time for new experiences. She decided to learn more about catering and went to work as a chef for one of the best catering companies in Massachusetts, Max Ultimate Food. 

She then went on to work for Cassie Piuma at her outstanding Somerville hotspot, Sarma. There, she gained an appreciation for bold, adventurous Mediterranean spices and flavors.

In late 2014, Fernanda opened Comedor. The restaurant received numerous accolades, including 25 Best new restaurant in Boston 2015, best South American restaurant 2016, and best West brunch in 2017.

In 2019, she competed in season 44 of Chopped, in an episode titled “Dine on a Dime.” Her bold South American flavors impressed the judges and ultimately won her the tile of Chopped Champion. In early 2020 she returned to the Food Network for a Chopped Champions tournament, a competition that included 16 returning Chopped Champions. She made it to the final and finished in second place. She also appeared on Beat Bobby Flay season 28 episode 11.

In June 2020, Fernanda sold Comedor and began her own private chef business, where she creates one of a kind menus with local ingredients for small gatherings and parties. She also enjoys teaching cooking classes to people of all levels, whether it be a hands-on lesson to a small group, one on one in person sessions, or virtual classes.

Fernanda has a love for all sports and the outdoors. When she is not in the kitchen, she can be found rock climbing, running, or hiking.