Team | Minas Steakhouse | Calgary Brazilian Restaurant

MINAS hospitality starts with the people behind the scenes.

At MINAS Brazilian Steakhouse, our leasdership team is not only passionate about food and hospitality but also deeply committed to making every guest feel at home. Together, we bring decades of culinary mastery, hospitality expertise, and entrepreneurial spirit to the table. Feel free to reach out — we’re always happy to connect!

Ownership

Chef Jose Montes

Co-Owner & Executive Chef

chefjose@minassteakhouse.com

With over 35 years of experience, Chef Jose has dedicated his life to perfecting Brazilian-style cuisine across five countries and three continents. His passion for grilled meats and traditional flavors laid the foundation for MINAS. With decades of experience leading renowned Brazilian steakhouses, and now as co-owner of MINAS, his focus remains on delivering authentic, high-quality experiences to every guest.

Carolina Lopez

Co-Owner & Business Manager

admin@minassteakhouse.com

With a strong background in real estate, design, and operations, Carolina is the driving force behind MINAS’s vision and daily management. From coordinating front-of-house systems to expanding the brand through retail, events, and technology, she ensures every detail reflects the heart of Brazilian hospitality.

Kitchen Leadership

Raul Candido

Head Chef

chefraul@minassteakhouse.com

A Brazilian entrepreneur turned chef, Raul joined MINAS in 2017 and quickly became a cornerstone of our kitchen leadership. He brings passion and precision to every task—from butchering meats and mentoring the kitchen team to leading our Events and Catering services. Raul ensures consistency, quality, and authentic Brazilian flavor, whether you're dining in or hosting a celebration.

Cecila Chinchilla

Pastry Chef & Retail Consultant

A Central American entrepreneur and part of the MINAS family since 2015, Chef Cecilia leads our pastry department and has helped shape our retail offerings. Her creativity and deep knowledge of sweets bring a special touch to our desserts and take-home treats.

Front-of-House & Retail

Marlon Delgado

Front-of-House Manager

manager@minassteakhouse.com

Marlon brings over a decade of international hospitality expertise with a Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality and Tourism. Since 2022, he has overseen the front-of-house team with professionalism and care, ensuring a smooth and welcoming guest experience. Marlon also plays a key role in organizing and executing events at MINAS, while supporting Carolina in business administration and day-to-day operations.

Danielle Drake

Front-of-House Supervisor & Retail Operations

supervisor@minassteakhouse.com

With an engineering background and a love for organization, Danielle has been part of MINAS since 2017. She was instrumental in rebuilding the business post-COVID and now supports both front-of-house and retail operations with care and dedication.

Saphira Kasahara

Retail & Marketing Specialist

info@brazilconnection.ca

Saphira has been leading our retail product line and marketing efforts since 2022, working alongside Danielle. She brings experience in brand ownership and visual design to help elevate MINAS's presence both in-store and online.

LEADERSHIP TEAM