About Chef Junior Borges
Junior Borges is a Brazilian-born chef based in Chicago, known for cooking that draws on his South American roots while reflecting years of experience in high-level American kitchens. He is the co-owner of Nic and Junior’s, a Chicago restaurant he opened with business partner Nic Yanez. His cooking is rooted in simplicity, technique, and the belief that flavor and hospitality are inseparable. He is a longtime friend and recurring guest on Chef’s PSA.
Episode Overview
André Natera reconnects with Junior Borges to talk through the process of building Nic and Junior’s from the ground up in Chicago — how Junior assembled his team, what the planning process looked like, and what he learned about opening a restaurant the second time around. They cover the food trends Junior is paying attention to right now, why simplicity and technique still matter more than novelty, and how he thinks about creativity in the kitchen — from Brazilian classics to the playful desserts that have become part of his signature.
This is a practical, honest conversation about what it actually takes to build a successful culinary brand with intention.
Links & Resources
Junior Borges on Instagram: @chefjuniorborges
Subscribe to Chef’s PSA → youtube.com/@ChefsPSA
Shop Chef’s PSA Merch → shop.chefspsa.com
Visit Chef’s PSA Website → chefspsa.com
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