Family Meal is a first-of-its-kind roundtable series featuring real restaurant professionals.

Brasero, Chicago, Episode 01

What does it really take to survive, and thrive, in today's high-stakes restaurant world? The team at Brasero pulls back the curtain in this raw, revealing conversation about life in a professional kitchen that goes far beyond the dramatized chaos you've seen on shows like The Bear.

Follow the surprising journeys that brought this crew together—from the perfectionistic pressure-cooker of Alinea to the creative energy of Girl & the Goat to completely unexpected career pivots. Their stories reveal why genuine passion isn't just helpful in this industry; it's absolutely essential for survival.

Discover the daily ritual of family meal that transforms this team from coworkers into something closer to actual family. It's these moments, away from the flames and knives, where the real magic happens, setting the tone that carries them through the intense service ahead.

In an industry that often glorifies lone-wolf chefs and kitchen tyrants, Brasero's philosophy stands apart: true hospitality and extraordinary food come not from ego, but from collaboration and mutual respect. This episode offers an intimate glimpse into how one restaurant is redefining kitchen culture while creating unforgettable dining experiences.