Our Story

SPICE by CMB brings together Chef Mychael Bonner’s deep roots in Chicago hospitality with a menu shaped by bold flavor, vibrant spice, and thoughtful execution. The experience is designed to feel elevated yet approachable-whether you’re joining us for brunch, cocktails, dinner, or a celebration.

SPICE by CMB is a modern dining destination built around flavor, connection, and experience. At its heart, SPICE’s menu was born from experience, discovery, and research. The menu takes inspiration from Afro-Caribbean diaspora infused with the palette of mid-west America to and create a soulful, vibrant blend of flavors.

From longtime neighborhood regulars to first-time guests, SPICE by CMB is a place to gather, celebrate, and return to often.

About Chef Mychael Bonner

Chef Mychael Bonner is a Chicago-based chef and entrepreneur with over three decades of experience, including a longtime tenure as a Chef Partner with Lettuce Entertain You, where he helped open and lead several notable restaurant concepts. His culinary perspective is shaped by a global journey through the cuisines of the African diaspora and Caribbean, grounded in his Midwestern roots. Today, he leads CMB Catering and SPICE by CMB, where he creates thoughtful, high-impact dining experiences rooted in hospitality, culture, and community.

About Chef Michael Brownell

Chef Michael Brownell brings more than 20 years of professional kitchen experience, much of it rooted in Italian cuisine. Now Executive Chef of Spice by CMB in Chicago, he blends classic Italian technique with the bold flavors of the Caribbean, inspired by years of travel.

A Southwest Michigan native, Michael trained in Las Vegas and spent seven years at Caesars Palace before moving to Chicago and joining Lettuce Entertain You. There, he deepened his expertise in Italian cooking and met his wife, Jennifer, whose love of travel sparked his passion for the Caribbean.

Michael later partnered with longtime mentor Mychael Bonner to create Spice by CMB, bringing his culinary journey full circle.

Outside the kitchen, Michael is a devoted husband, diehard Detroit sports fan, and avid golfer.