Today we’d like to introduce you to Andres.
Hi Andres, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I’ve always been passionate about food — not just cooking it, but understanding the experience it creates. My journey started in the kitchen trying to win the heart of my wife when we started dating, but it quickly evolved into something bigger. I realized early on that I didn’t just want to cook great food — I wanted to build experiences, create concepts, and design brands that told a story.
I started with Nona Street Bistro, the first ever fully customized Food Truck in Orlando, and what began as a simple concept grew into one of the most popular vendors in the city. From there, I launched additional ventures like Brick & Butter, Nona Street Pizza, and Eighty-Twenty — each with its own identity but all grounded in the same principles: quality, creativity, and community.
As I grew, I realized there were so many talented people out there who just needed the right guidance. That led to the creation of The Culinary Collective Studio, a mentorship initiative to help other culinary entrepreneurs bring their vision to life.
Today, I run several brands under my parent company, CIVAS GROUP, alongside my wife and business partner. Every step has been a learning experience, and I’m still just getting started.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Definitely not a smooth road. There were plenty of challenges — from financial stress to equipment breaking mid-service, to figuring out how to grow without losing the heart of what I started. Learning to lead a team, trust others, and still stay creative was tough. But every struggle taught me something. It’s been a wild ride, but I wouldn’t trade it.
As you know, we’re big fans of Brick & Butter / Nona Street Pizza / Nona Street Bistro / The Culinary Collective Studio / Eighty Twenty. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
I run several food concepts — including Nona Street Pizza, Brick & Butter, Nona Street Bistro, Eighty-Twenty, and The Culinary Collective Studio. Each concept has its own identity, but they all share the same core: great food, intentional design, and community-driven hospitality.
We’re known for taking simple things — like pizza or sandwiches — and making them unforgettable through flavor, presentation, and vibe. At Nona Street Pizza, we do artisan pies with creative toppings on hand-stretched dough. Brick & Butter specializes in elevated sandwiches and brunch with a buttery, nostalgic twist. And The Culinary Collective Studio is my way of giving back — a space where I mentor food truck owners and small culinary entrepreneurs to help them launch and grow their businesses.
What sets us apart is the level of detail we put into everything — from branding to the food itself. It’s all about creating an experience people remember.
What I’m most proud of brand-wise is the loyalty we’ve built. People don’t just come for the food — they feel like they’re part of something. And that means everything to me.
If there’s one thing I’d want readers to know, it’s that every concept we build is rooted in passion, purpose, and the belief that good food brings people together.
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
There are a few great ways to work with or support what we’re building. If you’re a brand, creator, or local business interested in collaborating — whether it’s a pop-up, event, or content partnership — we’re always open to creative ideas that align with our mission and community.
For those looking to break into the food industry, The Culinary Collective Studio is where I mentor upcoming entrepreneurs, especially food truck or small concept owners. Whether you need help with menu development, branding, or operations, I’d love to connect.
And of course, just showing up — grabbing a pizza, sharing a post, telling a friend — that kind of support goes a long way. Every visit, every tag, every recommendation helps us grow and keep doing what we love.
You can always reach out through Instagram or our websites — we’re real people behind the scenes, and we’re always listening.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.brickandbutter.com
- Instagram: @Brickandbutterorlando
- Facebook: @Brickandbutterorlando
Image Credits
Pictures by: @valtophotography
