Today we’d like to introduce you to Vanessa Carrillo.
Hi Vanessa, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My journey began in the bustling city of New York as a professional dancer. I was soon introduced to the hospitality industry, like many other artists trying to make a living in the big city. While working at top restaurants in Manhattan, my passion and love for the industry flourished. Leading teams and working the restaurant floors became as natural and inspiring as performing for large audiences in well-known theaters. Restaurants quickly became my new stage, my happy place where I could still express my artistic side by creating the perfect ambiance and delivering an unforgettable experience for my guests. I came to realize that the art of hospitality was akin to a dance, something you practice daily, the pursuit of excellence and intention behind each step, and dress up for when showtime arrives.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Being a Colombian immigrant with a Dance scholarship in New York, mastering a second language and assimilating into a new culture while living independently posed as my greatest challenge. Working in restaurants expanded my horizons, allowing me to connect with individuals who not only motivated me but also had faith in my abilities. New York served as the ideal city for a young professional like myself, providing the necessary tools for personal growth, self-assurance, and invaluable life lessons that have shaped me into who I am today.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
At AVA MediterrAegean, I get to wear a lot of hats, but at the core, my role is making sure everything runs smoothly so that our guests have an amazing experience every time they walk through the door. I oversee the daily operations, support our team, and make sure that the vibe of AVA, the energy, the hospitality, the attention to detail, shines through in everything we do. I think what I specialize in is people. Building strong teams, motivating them, and creating an environment where they feel empowered to take care of our guests. If my staff feels supported and inspired, that energy is contagious, and our guests feel it too. I’m most proud of the culture we’ve created here. AVA isn’t just a place to eat, it’s a whole experience. From the food to the music to the service, everything is designed to transport you. Seeing our guests light up and celebrate special moments with us, that’s what fuels me. What sets us apart is that we don’t just focus on one thing, we bring everything together. It’s not just great food, or beautiful design, or amazing service on their own. It’s how all of those elements blend to create a memory you’ll want to come back to. That’s the magic of AVA.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
Orlando has been an amazing place for my two young sons (7 and 4) and my husband to settle down and raise our family. We have been warmly embraced by the friendly community, and we love the relaxed lifestyle, beautiful lakes, and perfect weather here. What truly warms my heart is the incredible people and sense of community we have found. It’s so inspiring to see passionate restaurant owners in Orlando working hard to elevate the dining experience and service quality in the city.
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AVA MediterrAegean Winter Park
