Ailleen A.

Born and raised in California, Ailleen joined the team at Eataly Silicon Valley in 2022. Starting as a Sales Associate, she learned the ins and outs of our counters and honed her skills as a Barista. Working hard and always remaining positive and flexible in our fast-pasted environment, Ailleen was promoted to a Specialist position.

Recently in 2024, Ailleen became a Quick Service Lead. Now an expert on our stations, she loves to share her passion for coffee with both teammates and guests. Ailleen does everything she can to create a supportive working environment, pleasantly assisting and educating her fellow Eatalians.

She also brings her warm personality to her interactions with guests, making sure their Eataly experiences are always the best they can be. Now a talented barista, guests are known to come in and request coffee specially made by Ailleen!

What is your favorite part of your job?
“Interacting with customers and my coworkers. My team has been really amazing to work with, and we get along really well. I actually went to high school with many of them, so it’s been great to see them again here.”

What advice do you have for a fellow Eatalian?
“It may seem like a lot when you start at QSR because we have three different stations. But it’s okay to take it slow, and we will help you learn everything.”

What have you learned about Italian cuisine while working here?
“I learned how to make coffee here. Everything I know about coffee was from here. There are many people who I am training who have never touched coffee at all. I love to see their progress.”

When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
“I wanted to be teacher, but that has since changed.”

Outside of Eataly, what do you enjoy doing?
“I love painting nails. I’ve been practicing. Maybe one day I will study cosmetology.”