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Background and Training
Thiago Paixão grew up in the mountainous city of Resplendor, located in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. His upbringing was steeped in a love of food and family, influenced by the rich culinary traditions of his region. Moving to the United States in 2004 at the age of 21 to follow in his uncle’s footsteps, Thiago began a new chapter in his life that would lead to a flourishing culinary career.
From a young age, Thiago was inspired by his family’s love of cooking. Fishing trips with relatives and preparing meals for friends and family fostered his passion for food. Cooking was always more than a necessity in Thiago’s household—it was an expression of creativity and connection. His uncles and family members all cooked for fun, and he quickly learned the art of preparing delicious meals that brought people together.
A self-taught chef with an insatiable passion for learning, Thiago began his culinary journey by observing, experimenting, and perfecting his skills. This hands-on approach allowed him to work his way up the kitchen hierarchy, eventually becoming a sous chef and now an executive chef. Along the way, he gained invaluable experience working at establishments like Mad Fish, where he developed a love for sushi under the mentorship of Sang Hyun Lee, and several Northshore restaurants, collaborating with many skilled local chefs.
Passion for Cooking
For Thiago, being a chef is about more than preparing food; it’s about creating a memorable experience. He thrives in a fast-paced environment, relishing the opportunity to touch people’s lives with his culinary creations.
Thiago has a deep appreciation for tropical ingredients, vibrant colors, and the art of open-fire cooking. South American spices and techniques heavily influence his culinary style, as does his passion for exploring flavors from different cultures. A dish that holds a special place in his heart is pão de queijo, a traditional Brazilian cheese bread that embodies the comfort and nostalgia of home.
Staying inspired comes naturally to Thiago. He constantly researches cuisines and regional dishes from around the world, always looking for new ways to innovate and excite diners.
Vision for Wave Kitchen
Leading the kitchen at Wave Kitchen excites Thiago because it gives him the freedom to be creative and explore new culinary horizons. His approach to blending Asian fusion cuisine with South American flavors begins with identifying shared elements, such as bold, fresh ingredients and complementary techniques. By combining Asian spices and methods with South American staples like yucca and plantains, Thiago crafts dishes that balance tradition with innovation.
Thiago hopes guests at Wave Kitchen feel transported by the dining experience—discovering something familiar yet refreshingly different. Each dish tells a story, blending the traditions of his Brazilian roots with the techniques and flavors he’s honed over the years.
Gloucester’s local flair plays a significant role in Thiago’s menu. He works with fresh, locally sourced seafood and regional produce to create fusion dishes that celebrate the area’s rich culinary heritage. Signature dishes reflect Thiago’s connection to both the land and sea, honoring his upbringing and culinary philosophy.
Personal Touch
Outside the kitchen, Thiago spends time with his family, including his two daughters and son. He shares his love of cooking with them, creating cherished memories in their home kitchen. A surprising fact about Thiago? He can walk a tightrope—a testament to his sense of balance and precision, traits that also define his cooking.
Thiago’s philosophy is simple: “Cook with your heart and use your past to make the future.” This belief guides his approach to food and hospitality, ensuring every dish is infused with passion and purpose.
Future Vision
Looking ahead, Thiago envisions Wave Kitchen becoming renowned for its innovative take on Asian and South American fusion. His goal is to create a culinary destination that attracts both locals and visitors who appreciate adventurous yet approachable cuisine.
Wave Kitchen’s role in Gloucester’s food scene is one of complementarity and creativity. Thiago sees the restaurant contributing to the town’s vibrant culinary landscape by celebrating local ingredients and introducing bold new flavors and techniques.
Through his leadership, Thiago Paixão is poised to make Wave Kitchen an unforgettable part of Gloucester’s dining experience, one plate at a time.
Good Morning Gloucester 