After nearly 8 wonderful years of owning and operating The Charleston Draper as Executive Chef, I am grateful for the recognition and support the restaurant has received—including being named one of Utah’s best fine dining restaurants by Salt Lake Magazine in March 2025.
In April 2025, I made the difficult decision to close the doors at T
After nearly 8 wonderful years of owning and operating The Charleston Draper as Executive Chef, I am grateful for the recognition and support the restaurant has received—including being named one of Utah’s best fine dining restaurants by Salt Lake Magazine in March 2025.
In April 2025, I made the difficult decision to close the doors at The Charleston Draper and begin a new chapter in my culinary journey. While I am no longer associated with The Pines or Greg Castro, who have since moved into the space, my passion for creating unforgettable dining experiences remains stronger than ever.
Looking ahead, I am excited to explore new ways of sharing my love for food—whether through publishing a cookbook of recipes inspired by my travels, curating an underground dining experience near you, or perhaps opening a brand-new restaurant with a completely different theme.
Though others may continue to serve dishes inspired by my recipes, the dedication, love, and craftsmanship behind each creation will always remain uniquely mine.
If you would like me to bring this same passion into your home for a private dining experience, I would be honored to cook for you and your guests. Please feel free to reach out at chefmarcosilva@gmail.com.
With gratitude,
Chef Marco Silva
I was born in Sao Paulo, Brazil where I first learned to cook at a young age working with various Chefs and culinary practitioners. My mother had always wanted me to follow in her footsteps and play in the Sao Paulo Symphony as she did, but I opted instead to study piano and ultimately received a degree in classical piano from Lisbon Academy. I used that degree and my piano skills to play my way through the night clubs of Paris, France while taking cooking course during the day at Le Cordon Bleu de Paris from which I graduated in 1990.
My journey from there over the past 27 years has taken me to work as a chef in private homes, trains, yachts and restaurants as Chef de Cuisine and Executive Chef in Dubai, UAE and Australia/Papua New Guinea with Hilton Resorts and Spas. Most recently, owned/operated The Charleston Draper.
I presently reside in Salt Lake City with my partner, Steve. Together we have lived, worked or visited 32+ countries, speak five languages, and have met many great people along the way who have influenced our lives and my culinary drafts and passion for delicious foods.