About Me
I started working in restaurants when I was 10. After graduating from the University of South Florida (USF) in business management, I became the first female to work in the kitchen at the Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City in 2001. I moved on to being assistant manager at various locations and then transitioned to corporate.
Outside of work, I serve on the board of directors for the USF Foundation and the Florida Aquarium, as well as the Humane Society Advisory Council. My favorite job is being a mom to Amelia. My wonderful husband, Beau, supports everything I do.
My Local Knowledge
For a cup of tea, I love The Blind Tiger Cafe. I have become obsessed with their chai tea by TeBella.
One of my favorite spots for brunch is Counter Culture for something savory. I love Chef Jeannie Pierola’s restaurants.
For a client or business meal, I prefer the Columbia in Ybor right across from my office. My go-to order is the “1905” Salad with turkey, no Swiss and the Shrimp “Al Ajillo” appetizer all day long.
When spending a family day out, one of our favorite things is to ride our bikes along the Tampa Riverwalk. We stop for drinks at Ulele and my daughter loves visiting the Tampa Bay History Center.
My favorite place for a night out with friends is Bernini. It’s always had that big-city feel to it.
One of my favorite shops is La France in Ybor. It has beautiful jewelry, hats and big flowers for my hair. Another favorite is Downtown Dogs in Hyde Park Village for my German shepherd, Jenny.
My Tampa hidden gems are Grand Cathedral Cigars and The Attic at Rock Brothers. Grand Cathedral is so unassuming and relaxed, and it has such a great selection. The Attic is a very intimate, laid-back setting for cocktails and live music.
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