Mia Castro was born on May 21, 1988, in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Raised partly by her grandparents, she developed a deep appreciation for fresh and wholesome food from a young age. Her grandmother, in particular, played a significant role in sparking Mia's passion for cooking. As a child, she would often help her grandmother in the kitchen, learning traditional recipes and techniques that would later shape her culinary career.
After graduating from high school, Mia decided to pursue her love for cooking by enrolling in The Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park. There, she studied food and culinary arts, honing her skills and expanding her knowledge of various cuisines. Mia graduated with an Associate's degree in Culinary Arts and a Bachelor's degree in Hospitality and Management, laying a solid foundation for her future endeavors in the culinary world.
Following her graduation, Mia Castro embarked on a journey to gain hands-on experience and learn from some of the best chefs in the industry. She worked as an apprentice for renowned chefs such as Wolfgang Puck, Thomas Keller, and José Andrés, refining her techniques and expanding her culinary repertoire.
Mia's big break came when she auditioned to compete on season 18 of the popular Fox series Hell's Kitchen. The show, hosted by the fiery Gordon Ramsay, provided Mia with a platform to showcase her culinary skills and creativity to a wide audience. Despite fierce competition, Mia impressed judges and viewers alike, ultimately finishing as the runner-up and gaining widespread recognition for her talent.
In addition to Hell's Kitchen, Mia also appeared on the Food Network's hit show Chopped in 2013, further solidifying her reputation as a skilled and versatile chef.
Outside of television competitions, Mia has worked as a private chef in New York City, catering to high-profile clients and honing her craft in a fast-paced culinary environment. She has also made guest appearances on The Family Channel's Home & Family, sharing her expertise and passion for cooking with a wider audience.
When she is not busy in the kitchen, Mia enjoys spending time with her family and friends, exploring new restaurants, and experimenting with new recipes in her own kitchen. Her strong bond with her grandparents continues to inspire her culinary journey, reminding her of the importance of tradition, love, and connection in every dish she creates.