Owners
João de Almeida
João de Almeida’s professional journey is a testament to his unwavering passion for the art of serving drinks and providing exceptional customer service. His story began during his college days, where he discovered his love for the craft and realized that he was already immersed in a profession that resonated with his true calling. Fueled by a perpetual desire for self-improvement and excellence, João set out on a path of personal and professional growth that would lead him to remarkable destinations.
In 2013, João took his first step into the world of bartending at Brothers’ Bar in Worcester, United Kingdom. This marked the commencement of a journey dedicated to perfecting the skills of mixology and customer interaction, driven by his innate need to continuously enhance and refine his craft.
Returning to his hometown of Porto in 2015, João embraced the role of Shift Manager at Livraria da Baixa, solidifying his managerial expertise while contributing to the success of a local establishment. His commitment to excellence and leadership qualities soon propelled him into the position of Bar Manager at W Black in 2016, where he continued to elevate the standards of the establishments he served.
In 2017, João sought new horizons in the vibrant city of Lisbon, becoming the Bar Manager at Aura Restaurant & Lounge. This experience in the capital city allowed him to further expand his skills and make his mark on the thriving culinary and drinking scene.
Later in the same year, João took on the prestigious role of Head Barman at Verride Palácio de Santa Catarina, a luxurious five-star boutique hotel in Lisbon. This position not only showcased his expertise in crafting exquisite beverages but also demonstrated his ability to excel in high-end hospitality settings.
The summer of 2018 brought João to the lively and sun-soaked island of Ibiza, where he assumed the responsibilities of F&B Manager at the Amistat Island Hostel. Embracing the unique challenges of the role, he added yet another dimension to his diverse skill set.
In 2022, João de Almeida took a bold step in his career by becoming an owner at CHAMA. This marked a pinnacle in his journey, as he transitioned from being an integral part of renowned establishments to being a driving force behind a new venture. His ownership role reflects not only his expertise in the industry but also his entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to creating exceptional experiences for patrons.
João’s career trajectory stands as a shining example of passion, dedication, and an unyielding commitment to the pursuit of excellence in the world of hospitality and mixology.
Marco Guedes
Born in the Douro region and launched into the world, much like Port wine, he spent his early years beyond borders, where he had the opportunity to engage with different cultures and languages. Those who know Marco encounter his easy-going side, warm smile, and countryside roots; those who know “Guedes” discover a more methodical, organised, and disciplined side, shaped by Germanic culture. He considers himself a curious person, always searching for the origin and reason behind things, with the feeling that he never fully left the “age of asking why”.
With an academic background in Management and Sports, and a wide range of interests including sports, gaming, languages, and gastronomy (with the latter taking first place) he began his career as a bartender. His passion for cooking and curiosity to explore new flavours naturally led him towards a path increasingly focused on cocktails and hospitality. He often says that mise en place is his middle name: organisation, attention to detail, and method are deeply embedded in his professional DNA.
After working in some of the best bars and restaurants from north to south of the country, he embraced the challenge of joining the opening of a luxury hotel as Head Bartender: a role that, one year later, expanded to include the responsibility of Restaurant Manager. Over time, the management side of the industry gained greater importance in his career, leading him to progress to the position of F&B Director.
What brought him to Chama? Beyond his professional journey, it was above all his passion for the project and the belief that he could add value to his favourite restaurant in the city, a challenge he embraced with enthusiasm and xiripiti :D.
Jonas Martins
Meet Jonas. You’ve probably seen him at CHAMA, always bustling about, making sure your dining experience is a memorable one.
We asked him to write a little about himself. He agreed. We’re still waiting.
Between welcoming and serving guests, explaining the house rules, and making sure CHAMA is always burning bright, Jonas seems to have a schedule incompatible with autobiographies.
So, we decided to improvise.
What we do know is that, in October 2012, he started working at The Gin House, where he spent 8 years. Many shifts, countless drinks served, plenty of shared smiles, and enough stories to fill more than a few long nights. In 2021, he moved on to Vermuteria Gastrobar, continuing to build a career shaped by hospitality, pace, and passion for what he does.
Finally, in March 2024, he found his way to Rua dos Caldeireiros to join the management of CHAMA. (Or maybe CHAMA found Jonas, we’re still debating that part!)
Jonas is one of the people who sets the rhythm behind CHAMA’s hospitality and helps make everything seem effortless (even when it isn’t). He doesn’t enjoy being in front of the cameras, but he’ll always be the first to raise a glass with the team. You’ll probably find him with a stained t-shirt, but his good mood more than makes up for it.
If you’ve ever left CHAMA thinking, “That went really well,” there’s a good chance Jonas had something to do with it.
But one day he’ll write the official version himself. Maybe…
