Staffing

Luna Grill nabs former Qdoba exec

Luna Grill has named Michelle Goncalves as its VP of Culinary.

May 18, 2020

Luna Grill has named Michelle Goncalves as its VP of Culinary. Coming most recently from Qdoba Mexican Eats, where she served the past four years directing product marketing and culinary innovation, Goncalves has held management positions in product development, culinary innovation, restaurant operations and product marketing at a variety of brands for more than 20 years, according to a company press release.

"The Luna Grill brand is continuing to move forward, staying relevant through menu innovation is required to meet the changing customer landscape," Rich Pinnella, chief brand officer at Luna Grill. "Michelle's incredible breadth of experience in product development, team leadership and multi-location rollouts will play a key role in our future."

Prior to her time at Qdoba, Goncalves spent 17 years in various capacities with Taco Bell working on menu innovations like the Crunchwrap Supreme and the Border Bowl line, both generating large global sales layers. She also served as director of growth channels, new product implementation and menu readiness. 

Early career work included time with Jenny Craig, Carl's Jr. and Jack in the Box, all in the product development sphere.

Luna Grill has 50 locations in Southern California and the Dallas Fort Worth area.