Roger Lemus

ROGER LEMUS

Partner & Chef

Roger Lemus’s culinary journey began early, helping his grandmother prepare meals and discovering his passion for cooking through middle school classes. Despite only completing his education up to the ninth grade, Roger’s determination and love for the culinary arts set him on a remarkable path.

In 2001, Roger moved to the Washington D.C. metropolitan area, seeking new opportunities. His first job in the United States was as a dishwasher at JALEO, a restaurant owned by the acclaimed Chef José Andrés. It was there that Roger met Manny Flores, sparking a friendship that would shape his career. Chef José Andrés became a significant source of inspiration, famously telling Roger, “You can be a great cook because you have two hands like any other chef.” This simple yet powerful message motivated Roger to rise through the ranks, and he eventually became the top Sous Chef at JALEO, mastering Spanish cuisine over the course of a decade.

In 2014, Roger expanded his culinary expertise by working with another renowned chef, Richard Sandoval, at Centro DF, focusing on Mexican cuisine. It was during this time that he reconnected with Manny Flores. In 2016, Roger accepted Manny’s invitation to join him in Charlotte, NC, to embark on a new venture—Que Hospitality. Despite the challenges of moving to a new city and personal transitions, Roger's commitment to the hospitality industry remained steadfast.

Roger is deeply proud of the growth and success of Que Hospitality. His passion for cooking, dedication to excellence, and strong partnership with Manny have been instrumental in establishing the group's reputation.

Outside of work, Roger enjoys visiting his daughters, Gabby and Kamila, who live in Washington D.C. He cherishes the time spent with them each month, ensuring that family remains a central part of his life.