Michael Mina
Chef & Founder of Mina Group
Chef Michael Mina’s story is one of more than two decades of culinary influence, achievement and passion. A graduate of the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY, Chef Mina sprang to prominence with the opening of MICHAEL MINA in San Francisco. As AQUA’s executive chef from 1993 to 2002, he was awarded Rising Star Chef of the Year (1997) and Best Chef: California (2002) by the James Beard Foundation Awards.
Throughout his illustrious career, he has been honored with numerous accolades including a Michelin star at MICHAEL MINA (2012-2018), James Beard Foundation's “Who’s Who of Food & Beverage” inductee (2013), Gayot's Restaurateur of the Year (2011), Bon Appétit's Chef of the Year (2005), and more.
Chef Mina’s culinary and business vision ultimately led to the founding of MINA Group, which now owns and operates more than 30 restaurants around the world.