A journey dedicated to helping independent restaurants thrive.
For over 20 years, we have evolved alongside technology, constantly seeking the most effective solutions to help restaurants prosper. From our early days in Ipanema to scaling digital platforms in Silicon Valley and the US, our path has been defined by one mission: ensuring your digital foundation is as strong as your kitchen.
Our Journey: From Ipanema to California
The Boutique Roots (2002 – 2010)
Our story began in the heart of Rio de Janeiro’s culinary scene, Ipanema, focused on the soul and design of Brazilian food service. By 2008, we brought this passion to São Paulo, the largest gastronomic hub in Latin America, establishing the foundations of what would become the Contágio ecosystem.
The Scaling Era (2011 – 2016)
We mastered the art of scaling by partnering with a Japanese food chain on a decade-long journey. We were there from the grand opening of their first location to the successful consolidation of their 32nd unit. This experience taught us that marketing must be a sustainable engine for growth, not just an expense.
The Tech & Operations Shift (2017 – 2024)
We decided it wasn't enough to just do the marketing; we needed to master the code and the operation. We co-founded App Apptite, a proprietary food delivery platform, and were accelerated by 500 Startups in Miami. This era fused our "Operator Mindset" with Silicon Valley’s data-driven intelligence.
The Phygital Revolution (2025 – Today)
Today, CTG Digital Marketing operates from San Clemente, CA, leading the integration between the physical and digital worlds for independent restaurants across the the world. We combine 24 years of history to ensure your basics are done with perfection, allowing your restaurant to thrive in an increasingly technological market.
Founders
Marcelo Monteiro
FounderWith a journey that began in 2002 in Rio de Janeiro, Marcelo is the architect behind the group’s commercial strategy and international expansion. As the co-founder of the food delivery platform App Apptite and accelerated by 500 Startups, he brought a data-driven, results-oriented vision to the agency. Now based in California, he leads CTG Digital Marketing operations from San Clemente, bridging the gap between US market innovation and the scale of our partners in both the US and Brazil.
Founder CEOLivia Castro
Lívia is the guardian of technical excellence and customer success. A specialist in Digital Marketing and SEO, she ensures that every restaurant's digital foundation is visible and relevant to those searching for their next meal. With over a decade of experience, Lívia has led the scaling journey for major chains, supporting operations from their first location to over 30 units. Her management is guided by the principle that "the basics done right" and technical visibility (SEO) are the only true paths to sustainable growth.