Chris Teixeira has been covered in flour for as long as he can remember—and he wouldn’t have it any other way. As the Culinary Director & Executive Pastry Chef for The Fifty/50 Restaurant Group, he’s the mastermind behind some of Chicago’s most drool-worthy desserts and artisan breads. Whether it’s flaky pastries, bold new takes on classic flavors, or killer breads that steal the show, Teixeira knows how to turn simple ingredients into something unforgettable. Overseeing the entire culinary program, he’s got a hand in everything from menu development and training to making sure every dish that hits the table is top-notch.

Born in Boston to Portuguese parents and now calling Chicago home, Teixeira’s love for baking started early—watching his mom work in the same bakery for 25 years sparked a passion that led him straight to the Culinary Institute of America. There, he earned degrees in Baking & Pastry Arts and Hospitality Management while teaching and honing his craft. From there, he hit the ground running, landing a gig as Pastry Chef de Partie at the four-star Sixteen at Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago, where he sharpened his skills at the highest level.

Teixeira’s talent hasn’t gone unnoticed. He’s been named one of Chicago Tribune’s “Under-the-Radar Pastry Chefs You Ought to Know,” landed a spot on Zagat’s “30 Under 30” list, and even snagged a James Beard semifinalist nod for “Rising Star Chef of the Year.” His approach? Keep it simple, let the ingredients do the talking, and only use fancy techniques when they actually make the food better.

In 2019, Teixeira joined an elite club by becoming a Certified Master Baker. Then, in 2022, he leveled up again, earning Certified Executive Pastry Chef and World Certified Pastry Chef credentials. But titles aside, he’s all about making food that people love.

When he’s not in the kitchen, Teixeira gives back to the culinary world through the Edward Lee Foundation, World Central Kitchen, and the French Pastry Institute, helping shape the next wave of pastry talent. Oh, and if he looks familiar, that’s because he’s been on the Food Network multiple times—most recently showing off his skills on Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking.

In 2024, Teixeira decided it was time to share his thoughts beyond the kitchen, teaming up with his chef buddy Christo Vlahos and the two launched the Chef May I podcast. Bringing their years of culinary experience, behind-the-scenes industry stories, and plenty of fun banter, the duo serves up an entertaining and insightful listen for food lovers and chefs alike. You can catch them on your favorite podcast platforms.

At the end of the day, Teixeira just loves baking. Whether it’s a perfectly crusty loaf, a ridiculously good pastry, or an over-the-top dessert, he’s all about making food that brings people together. And if he can help others do the same, even better.