La Vickyna Latin Fusion, Poughkeepsie, New York
Victoria McDermott, proudly hailing from Sinaloa, Mexico, is the dynamic owner of La Vickyna Latin Fusion.
This vibrant restaurant is celebrated for its creative twists on traditional Hispanic and Latin dishes. Victoria’s menu pays homage to her roots and personal background, showcasing beloved family dishes such as her grandmother’s crepes and a unique fusion birria that mixes traditional tastes with a contemporary touch.
After gaining experience through various roles at a local Mexican restaurant, including washing dishes, prepping, serving, cooking, and managing, Victoria took a leap of faith to open her own restaurant. Surrounded by her close friends, her daughters Carly and Chloe, and several area dignitaries, La Vickyna Latin Fusion opened on Dec. 8th, 2024.
La Vickyna is more than a restaurant; it serves as a cultural hub showcasing the richness of Latin culinary traditions. Victoria's commitment to excellence is evident in every dish she creates, blending classic flavors with creative elements to delight her customers. And her influence extends far beyond the kitchen. Victoria is an active cultural ambassador, partnering with the Poughkeepsie Folkloric Group to organize and participate in cultural events that promote Hispanic heritage, and she has also worked with the Salvation Army to conduct cooking classes for children.
Victoria’s dedication to inspiring others is exemplified by her involvement with Vassar College’s Somos Vecinos project, a podcast designed to motivate college students to dream big and achieve their goals. She also plays a vital role in Conectando Raíces, an organization that assists seniors in obtaining visas to reconnect with their families in the U.S. after years apart. Through her restaurant, community initiatives, and cultural engagements, Victoria McDermott embodies the essence of culinary excellence, cultural celebration, and community impact.
