Chef's Legacy

The Dream of Chef Michael T. Brinkin

The start of this great legacy began well before Big House Cafe opened its doors. On June 28, 1963, Michael Timothy Brinkin was born in Albuquerque, NM, and by his 20s when he arrived in Casa Grande and met the love of his life, his heart had already begun to fill the world with his love for others and the love that he held for Jesus. 

Chef, as he was simply and so fondly known, opened Big House Cafe on June 15th, 2009. Just as his life had filled and flourished, so had this little unassuming cafe. Since the beginning he has had his family by his side, and as the years went on more family has joined our staff, and staff has become family (both literally and figuratively). Chef’s true joy was bringing people together, usually to enjoy a great meal. Everyone loved his cooking; family, friends, his many customers, and the homeless he loved to provide for regularly. His heart, soul, and steadfast faith shone through in his meals, and he often proclaimed his restaurant to be his ministry. The passion that he held for cooking, a talent that he has certainly passed on to his children, is what makes the Big House what it is today.

Chef Michael was called home to Jesus on January 27, 2024, but his family and friends continue working hard to keep his legacy going strong. 

While he may not be here with us now, his dream will always be alive and at the heart of what we do.