Eugene Lee
Eugene I. Lee, Jr. has served as a member of the Board of Directors of Portillo’s since June 2025 and is Chairman of the Board. Mr. Lee brings extensive leadership experience across the restaurant industry, from emerging, high-growth concepts to established, high-volume chains. He served as CEO at Darden Restaurants from 2015 to 2022 and as Chairman of the Darden Board from 2021 to 2023. Under his leadership, Darden’s revenues grew by more than $2 billion and its market capitalization nearly tripled to $20 billion. He led the company through periods of significant change, including the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic, with a steadfast focus on team members and guests. Mr. Lee originally joined Darden in 2007 through the acquisition of RARE Hospitality International, and went on to hold several senior roles, including President and Chief Operating Officer, and President of Darden’s Specialty Restaurant Group. Prior to Darden, Mr. Lee held various leadership positions at RARE, including President and COO.
In addition to serving on Portillo’s Board of Directors, Mr. Lee also serves as Independent Board Chair for Advance Auto Parts. He earned a Master of Business Administration from Suffolk University. Mr. Lee was awarded the prestigious Gold Plate Award for industry excellence in 2018 by the International Foodservice Manufacturers Association. He previously received the People Report Workplace Legacy Award in recognition of his commitment to balancing people and performance throughout his career in foodservice.
Favorite Portillo’s Menu Item: Italian Beef Sandwich