Today we’d like to introduce you to Alejandro Fertitta.
Alejandro, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Roughly six years ago, I was diagnosed with Celiac disease. As devastating as the news was, I did not let it get me down. Before dining out, I took it upon myself to call restaurants and speak directly with chefs to see if they would be able to accommodate a gluten-free dietary restriction. After a few months of doing this, I had compiled a decently sized list and decided to create a website where I could share my findings; this is when Munch Miami (www.MunchMiami.com) was born. Shortly thereafter, an Instagram (www.instagram.com/MunchMiami) and Facebook (www.facebook.com/MunchMiami) presence followed.
Then, in 2016, we began offering gluten-free consulting services for restaurants looking to safely modify their menus and train their staff. In 2018, we launched our professional photography and videography chapter (www.MunchMiami.com/Portfolio) and now offer a full array of digital content creation services for restaurants and events.
In short, Munch Miami is a gluten-free guide founded by a guy who never thought he could give up beer, pizza, and sandwiches. Beyond being a gluten-free resource, we are dedicated to educating the foodie culture on what a gluten-free lifestyle involves. We strive to share recipes, feature restaurants, and review products so those making this transition can continue living as seamlessly as possible. Whether you are choosing to follow a healthier diet or you have a gluten-related condition, you can rely on Munch Miami for all your gluten-free needs!
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
The South Florida food scene wasn’t prepared to handle a gluten-free diet a few years ago. Nowadays, it is much better but still not quite at the level of other cities (especially on the West Coast). I still remember being looked at with utmost confusion when I would ask for a gluten-free menu. On a few occasions, the waitstaff would guarantee the food didn’t have any glucose or artificial sweeteners… which was a big red flag that they did not know what gluten was at all.
Now, even though the South Florida restaurant and general food scene is slowly becoming more “gluten aware,” we’ve still got a lot of work to do. There are only a handful of restaurants that are Celiac safe in South Florida and many of the restaurants we visit are not dedicated gluten-free facilities. These establishments do not have dedicated preparation areas or dedicated cooking equipment. Therefore, there could be a risk of slight cross-contamination.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
We are known for our gluten-free blog and social media presence. We are proud of all of our accomplishments and most recently, our professional photography services.
In 2014, I created a website where I could share information about gluten-free restaurants and products around South Florida; this is when Munch Miami (www.MunchMiami.com) was born. Shortly thereafter, an Instagram (www.instagram.com/MunchMiami) and Facebook (www.facebook.com/MunchMiami) presence followed. Then, in 2016, we began offering gluten-free consulting services for restaurants looking to safely modify their menus and train their staff. In 2018, we launched our professional photography and videography chapter (www.MunchMiami.com/Portfolio) and now offer a full array of digital content creation services for restaurants and events.
What were you like growing up?
My parents would say I’ve always been quite creative and very curious. I’ve been playing music from a young age and I’ve been interested in photography ever since I was in Middle School.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.MunchMiami.com
- Email: [email protected]
Image Credit:
Munch Miami
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