For more than 20 years, Luna Grill has quietly built a loyal following across 51 locations – but thanks to vibrant Mediterranean flavors, real ingredients, and a kitchen that actually cooks – “quiet” isn’t the word anyone’s using now.

With a recent successful Chef Curated Salad launch and rising guest love across social media Luna Grill is stepping into the spotlight. And leading that charge? Chef Michelle Goncalves – Chief Culinary Officer, working mom and the creative mind behind a menu that’s winning hearts and fueling the business.

We here at Luna Grill sat down with her at our HQ to talk food, family and why Mediterranean isn’t just a trend – it’s a lifestyle.

Q: Chef Michelle, you’ve helped guide Luna Grill through some serious momentum. What’s behind the brand’s recent growth?

Chef Michelle:

People are looking for food that makes them feel good – not just physically, but emotionally. They want something fresh, real, energizing and full of flavor. That’s exactly what the Mediterranean diet offers and that’s exactly what we serve at Luna. Our growth isn’t a fluke – it’s because we’re consistent, intentional, and focused on quality.

I think one of the bigger shifts is: we’re not the best-kept secret anymore. The word’s definitely getting out about the benefits of Mediterranean.

Q: You recently launched the new Chef Curated Salads – what was your vision behind those?

Chef Michelle:

I wanted to make salads that weren’t an afterthought. Each one is chef-crafted with bold ingredients that surprise you. We’re talking seasonal fruit, creamy burrata, house made dressings, crispy chickpeas – it’s real cooking.

The Seasonal Peach & Burrata is this beautiful mix of sweet, spicy and creamy. The Olympus Greens is herb-packed and under 500 calories and shockingly satisfying. And the Luna Caesar takes something familiar and makes it totally fresh with Mediterranean flair. These aren’t side salads – they’re the stars of the show.

Q: You’re not just a chef – you’re a mom. How does that shape your approach to the menu?

Chef Michelle:

Being a mom keeps me grounded. I’m constantly thinking about what I’d want my own kids to eat. It has to be wholesome, but it also has to be exciting. That’s the balance I try to strike with everything we do at Luna Grill – flavor-forward food that you feel good serving your family. Because that’s what I do at home.

Q: There’s a lot of “better-for-you” noise in the food space right now. What makes Luna Grill truly different?

Chef Michelle:

Mediterranean isn’t a trend. It’s timeless. It’s been voted America’s Healthiest Diet for eight years in a row for a reason. It’s naturally balanced whole grains, lean proteins, good fats and tons of fresh veggies. And we don’t just talk about it – we live it.

We marinate, grill and create our delicious offerings fresh daily. We don’t cut corners. And we’re always innovating, whether it’s a new protein, a limited-time flavor, or an ingredient we make from scratch because we couldn’t find anything good enough on the market.

Q: Any message to Luna fans – or those just discovering the brand?

Chef Michelle:

If you’ve never tried us, now’s the time. We’re growing fast for a reason. Our kitchens are full of heart, our food is full of flavor, and we’re not slowing down. I’m so proud of what we’ve built and we’re just getting started!

To join the movement and get involved with Luna Grill’s loyalty rewards program, Club Luna – please click here.