Janet L.

Janet grew up working at her family’s Chinese restaurant, helping in the kitchen and serving tables. It was there that she fell in love with cooking.

In 2021, Janet joined the team at Eataly Toronto Yorkville as a Prep Cook in our Central Kitchen, where she’s been a staple ever since. Every day, Janet arrives early and prepared. She is the only member of the team without a list of to-do items on the shared whiteboard, as everyone knows she will manage the tasks she needs to complete without any guidance. She has earned the whole-hearted trust of her team members.

Janet recognizes the value of community and often organizes moments outside of work for team members to come together and get to know each other better. She is a pillar of our community, production, and culture at Eataly Toronto Yorkville.

What is your favorite memory from your time at Eataly so far?
“I remember one time we were really busy, and we were all helping each other with tasks so that we could go home on time. Everyone was just so happy. It was a good time. Even though we were really just working to complete our tasks, it was fun.

What advice do you have for a fellow Eatalian?
“Be a good example- that’s definitely a big one. Lead with your actions. Be punctual. Try to learn as much information as you can from your peers.  Specifically, I’ve learned so much about how to fix things when they go wrong. I try to retain everything since I’m doing it every day.”

What is your favorite part of your job?
“I like my job because I’m in my own area and I can work independently counting and peeling food. I like the repetitive process because I know how to do it, and no one really has to tell me how to do it”

Who inspires you?
“The people I work with. Everyone is different. I see them and they tell me their stories. They’re from different places and it makes me want to travel as well. I haven’t taken a vacation in four years, since I started. I want to go somewhere meaningful, and they inspire me to do that.”

Here is Janet in action!