The name, Molino Chido, refers to the ‘molino’ or mill, used to grind corn to make masa, while ‘chido’ means ‘cool’ or ‘awesome’. Ultimately, ‘chido’ has become our own term to describe our vibe: polished grit, cooking with intention, kaizen, true hospitality, teamwork, doing things the right way and celebrating your community. 

Michael Diaz de Leon is a first-generation Mexican American born on the border of México and the United States in the culturally rich city of El Paso, Texas. Growing up in a border town shaped his identity and worldview—living in two cultures at once, he developed an early and enduring affinity for community, connection, and storytelling through food. In 2023, Chef Michael was named a James Beard Finalist for Best Chef Mountain Region and was awarded a Michelin Star and Michelin Green Star for his leadership at Bruto in Denver, CO. 

Tommy Lee, a Denver native born from Hong Kong immigrants, is Chef/Founder of 3 locations of Uncle Ramen and regional Chinese restaurant Hop Alley in Denver, CO. Hop Alley has held a Michelin Bib Gourmand award since 2023. Chef Lee was nominated as a James Beard Semi-Finalist for Best Chef Mountain Region in 2020 and a Semi-Finalist for Outstanding Restaurateur in 2025.