The 33-year-old Brazilian chef came here five years ago and enjoyed the city so much that he stayed and will become an Australian citizen on Australia Day.

"I had travelled overseas before, and I really enjoyed the experience," he said.

"This time, on my second overseas trip, I wanted to settle down somewhere I could actually have a better quality of life but also apply my skills as a chef. And Melbourne is the biggest restaurant-per-capita city in the world."

Mr Fonpoura, who hails from Goiania in Brazil's central west region, is the hospitality training supervisor at Academia International, a training college in the CBD.

He said Melbourne was a great fit for his profession and the place he could best apply his skills.

"I've been teaching overseas students for a few years and dealing with the cultural diversity that is in Australia. I think I can make a real contribution."

Mr Fonpoura said there were many differences between Australia and Brazil, but he saw similarities in people and climate.

"The weather and the warmth of people [in Australia] is very similar to my country."

He also found Australia to be a more affordable place to live than Brazil.

"The lifestyle in Australia is a little bit more laid back and the working hours are a little shorter."

Mr Fonpoura and his wife, Vanessa, have just bought their second house and plan to start a family soon.