ISLX Magazine_Summer 2025_print issue | Page 40

NOTEWORTHY

Michael Mina is perhaps the most acclaimed, accomplished and successful Las Vegas chef. He is founder and executive chairman of The MINA Group, a collection of 30 chef-driven concepts( five in Las Vegas) across the country showcasing the best of food, wine and spirits.

Born in Cairo, Egypt and raised in Ellensburg, WA, Chef Mina began his epicurean journey at the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY. His storied career includes a long list of accolades, including James Beard Foundation Rising Star Chef of the Year( 1997), Best Chef: California( 2002) and“ Who’ s Who of Food & Beverage” inductee( 2013); Michelin star at MICHAEL MINA( 2012-2018); Gayot’ s Restaurateur of the Year( 2011); Bon Appétit’ s Chef of the Year( 2005); and named one of the“ 50 Most Powerful People in American Fine Dining” by Robb Report( 2023). The Las Vegas resident filled us in on why he chose to become a chef and his newest Las Vegas restaurant, Bourbon Steak.
WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO BECOME A CHEF?
When I was a teenager, I worked in a local restaurant and quickly learned every role there was. I knew in my heart I was meant to cook, but it took some persuading to get my parents on board. They had moved our family from Egypt not long after I was born, so they didn’ t understand why I would go and do something
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