The Chef's Special
Meet Chef Mimmo Alboumeh, our resident culinary expert, who brings flavor, heart, and a whole lot of spirit to Edinburgh!
With more than 30 years in the culinary industry, Chef Mimmo has built his career on one simple promise: creating unforgettable dining experiences for every guest who walks through his doors. Known for his contagious spirit and genuine hospitality, he has earned a loyal following and a reputation as one of Atlanta’s most personable chefs and restaurateurs.
Born in Lebanon and raised in Spain and Italy, Chef Mimmo’s global upbringing deeply influences his culinary style. He brings a passion for hospitality and a commitment to gourmet cuisine with locally sourced ingredients.
Chef Mimmo and his family moved to Edinburgh in January 2016. Mimmo and Debbie have been married for 29 years. They met when she worked for him at a local restaurant one summer when she was home from college. The family loves cooking for friends in their backyard. Sharing delicious food, plenty of laughs, and meaningful connections is what truly makes Edinburgh feel like home. Mimmo and Debbie have 3 children. Maya, 13, is a straight-A student and proud brainiac who plays violin in her school orchestra at North Gwinnett Middle School. She dreams of becoming a brain surgeon one day. Mazzen, 19, is studying computer science at Georgia State University. Miriam, 25, works in Atlanta and is proudly following in her dad’s footsteps in the restaurant industry.
Chef Mimmo and his wonderful family love hosting poolside gatherings for friends and loved ones. Always happiest behind the grill, he fires up the pizza oven and prepares handcrafted pizzas topped with the freshest ingredients picked straight from their garden; serving up great food, warm hospitality, and unforgettable memories. Not only does the family love our Edinburgh, but they are incredibly grateful for the first responders and healthcare heroes who care for our community every day. To show their appreciation, they proudly offer a 20% discount to staff from Piedmont Hospital, Shepherd Center, and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta when they dine at Botica and Chico Cantina.
Chef Mimmo opened Botica in 2021, a chef-driven concept inspired by the vibrant flavors of Spain, Mexico, and his Mediterranean roots, where his signature style seamlessly blends cultures on every plate. He is also the visionary behind Chico Cantina, Botica’s sister restaurant in Town Brookhaven, which opened in 2025 and is known for its bold flavors, lively atmosphere, and welcoming hospitality.
Chef Mimmo’s restaurants consistently rank among OpenTable’s Best Of lists, and Botica earned the Golden Spatula Award from Atlanta News First in January 2025. His signature chili recipe also took home the Best Chili Award at the Atlanta Chili Cookoff.
Whether his guests are sitting shoulder-to-shoulder in Chef Mimmo's backyard or gathered around a table in one of his restaurants, his intention is the same. Let them leave with bellies and hearts full, and hopefully a new appreciation for one of his masterful culinary creations. Truly, it’s a joy to have a chef in our neighborhood who serves not just unforgettable flavors, but unforgettable experiences.