The chef, who was awarded two Michelin stars, began his culinary career in 2003 when he enrolled at the Culinary Institute of America in New York. During his four years in the city, he studied and worked for renowned chefs such as Jean-Georges Vongerichten and René Pujol. In 2007, he relocated to Spain to join the team at Mugaritz, led by Andoni Luis Aduriz.

Returning to Brazil, Rafa opened Lasai in Rio de Janeiro in 2014. Just one year after opening, Lasai earned its first Michelin star in 2015. The second star came in 2024, when the restaurant celebrated its 10^(th) anniversary.  For over a decade, Lasai has been consistently ranked among the best restaurants in Latin America and the world, winning accolades such as a place in The World's 50 Best Restaurants list. 

Using modern techniques and produce from his own gardens and those of small-scale producers in Rio de Janeiro, Rafa creates dishes that focus on vegetables without neglecting the freshest seafood and finest meats.

In 2020, he joined the cast of TV Globo's culinary reality show Mestre do Sabor. His participation in the second season was characterised by a focus on showcasing perfect culinary technique and product quality.