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Viktor Silva- Chef and Patron
Viktor Silva brings over a decade of culinary expertise to his new fine dining venture. Originally from Brazil, he honed his craft at top-tier establishments, including O Butiá and the State Governor’s Office. Since relocating to Ireland in 2016, Viktor has refined his skills in Michelin-awarded kitchens. A graduate of Culinary Arts in Brazil with additional training in France, he fuses his extensive experience with traditional Brazilian cooking.
Alex Radu – General Manager and Patron
With over 20 years of hands-on experience in the hospitality industry, Alex Radu one of the driving forces behind Amai. He began his career in Greece, where he spent five years training and working in bars, restaurants, and nightclubs. In 2012, he moved to Ireland and quickly built notoriety in some of the country’s most respected restaurants, gaining deep expertise in customer service, operations, and leadership. Now, as General Manager and Patron of Amai, Alex brings a unique blend of international flair and local warmth. His mission is simple: create unforgettable experiences for every guest.
Mariana Vasconcellos- Assistant General Manager
With a background in human resources and a passion for hospitality, Mariana Vasconcellos brings a wealth of experience to her role as Assistant General Manager. Since 2016, she has honed her expertise in Ireland’s vibrant hospitality scene, working across hotels, nightclubs, and restaurants. A graduate in business with a certification in coaching, she combines leadership, guest-focused service, and operational excellence to create unforgettable dining experiences.
Amai’s story
My grandparents never had the chance to go to school. They couldn't read or write, so they relied on recognizing bus colors and familiar faces. Cooking became their way to survive—they made food for my parents to sell in the city. What began as survival became something beautiful. Their meals were full of love, and that love sparked my passion.
They didn’t choose cooking—it was their only option. For me, it became a choice. Through their sacrifices, I found my path, and that’s how Amai was born.
Wanting to honor my African roots, I found the name Amai in Shona, a language from southern and western Africa. It means “mother” or “a woman of many roles.” In Brazilian Portuguese, Amai also means “to love.” The name is a tribute to the strong women who raised me and a reminder to care, nurture, and love—just as they did for me.
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