Chef J was born in Minas Gerais, Brazil and moved to the United States in 2005. He began his culinary journey at a young age and quickly developed a passion for the arts. Influenced by his Portuguese heritage, he has amplified the dynamic flavor profile that stretches back three generations in his family.

At age 14, Chef J started working at a professional restaurant full-time while still in high school. He experimented with different types of cuisine and continued to work at various restaurants to shape and help diversify his flavor profile. At the age of 16, he had the opportunity to manage his first kitchen, and from there he received an internship. These early experiences helped establish his true passion for barbecue.