Meet the Talent

A visionary chef and restaurateur, José Mendín has redefined Miami's dining scene and beyond with his innovative culinary approach. Born in Puerto Rico to a family passionate about food, he discovered his love for cooking in college and pursued a Bachelor's in Culinary Arts at Johnson & Wales University in Miami. By 2001, he was already making a name for himself, helping open Nobu Miami, followed by Nobu London in 2002.

Eager to expand his expertise, Mendín trained under Michelin-starred chefs in Spain before returning to Miami, where he co-founded Mosaico. In 2004, he became chef de cuisine at Sushisamba Miami Beach, later playing a key role in launching Sushisamba Vegas. His ability to create culinary hotspots continued with Mercadito Chicago (2009) and Mercadito Miami (2010).

In 2010, Mendín co-founded The Pubbelly Restaurant Group with Sergio Navarro and Andreas Schreiner, revolutionizing Miami's food scene. The trio received the StarChefs Rising Star Restaurateur Award in 2016. Since then, he has launched multiple acclaimed restaurants, including Casa Isola, a hit Italian eatery now expanded to Mexico City, and La Placita, a heartfelt tribute to his Puerto Rican heritage.

Mendín's latest projects continue to make waves— Hitchihaika and June Burgers at Julia & Henry's Food Hall in Downtown Miami, as well as Mar y Rosa, an upscale rooftop restaurant and lounge at the Alma Hotel in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico. Meanwhile, his well-known Pubbelly Sushi brand is expanding across Florida and beyond.

Mendín is a five-time James Beard Award semifinalist for "Best Chef, Southeast.