Today we’d like to introduce you to Veruska Chalbaud.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
In December 2017, my cousin, who worked as a Manager in El Pimiento, called me asking if I knew someone who wanted to work as a waitress just for a shift some days of the week. And I thought, why not me? At the time, I worked with my husband from home and one of my daughters was preparing to leave for College, while the other one was already a High School Student, so my free time was increasing. I went through a period at the restaurant and realized how much I enjoyed working in this field. The restaurant felt a bit like being abroad. The environment was amazing, the people were kind and welcoming, the events set up by the restaurant were fun and filled with joy… A Spanish singer with a Tunisian guitar player on Fridays, a Flamenco dancer on Saturdays, and I immediately fell in love. From day one, I worked as if the restaurant was mine!
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
El Pimiento has stood tall since 2006, but from 2014 to 2018 the restaurant lacked the good quality in food and the love that it deserved…many clients were lost. My first year as the owner was devoted to reviving and polishing the image, concept and culture of El Pimiento that it once had. Our Spanish born Chef and I were facing countless challenges during this time period. We had been striving to find fresh and nutritious ingredients in order to deliver high-quality food and bring back the best flavors of Spain. My challenge was to continue the legacy of this deep-rooted Spanish restaurant, cherishing its traditions.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about El Pimiento Restaurant – what should we know?
El Pimiento Restaurant is a cozy place that makes the clients enjoy the scrumptious food made by our Spanish born chef that searches for high-quality ingredients.
We offer our clients real Spanish food, and we are known for our live entertainment on weekends, provided by talented Flamenco dancers and singers.
I’m offering an opportunity for people to experience a small part of the Spanish culture. I am proud of being a woman running this local business and receiving respect and support from this wonderful community.
El Pimiento is a gem, a hole in the wall, and the best-kept secret in the greater Miami area. El Pimiento offers a fantastic ambiance full of energy.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
We have a very engaged team. We have two amazing Spanish cooks in the kitchen and two main waiters who provide our costumers with great service.
El Pimiento gets creative in the midst of the novel coronavirus. As resilient way to surf this pandemia, we implemented with success, curbside pickup, takeout or offering delivery options in the area. Always guaranteeing the same quality and food preparation, introducing new plating, serving with new practical and safe packaging .
Some regulars ask for these two when they haven’t been seen in the restaurant.
My husband, for whom I am especially grateful for, helps me with marketing of the restaurant and takes pictures and videos to post on social media.
Contact Info:
- Address: 16403 NW 67th Avenue
Miami Lakes, FL 33014 - Website: www.elpimientorestaurant.com
- Phone: 305-8268181
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: elpimientorestaurante ( also elpimientorestaurant )
- Facebook: elpimientorestaurant
- Twitter: elpimientorest
- Yelp: elpimientorestaurant
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