Jose H.

Originally from Nueva Esparta, a state made up of three islands in the Venezuelan Caribbean, Jose developed a strong work ethic from an early age. He pursued studies in Public Accounting at the University of Margarita and began a postgraduate degree in tax management before moving to the United States in 2016. With a talent for excelling in fast-paced environments and a passion for hospitality, he found his way into the restaurant industry.

Jose joined the team at Eataly NYC Flatiron in 2021, supporting tables across all first-floor restaurants in our flagship location and adapting to their different styles and offerings – La Pizza & La Pasta, La Piazza, Il Pesce, Il Pastaio, and Bar Milano. In 2024, Jose moved to Eataly Ristorante in SoHo, where he has made a great impact on the team and culture.

Serious yet joyful, Jose is attentive to detail, taking pride in himself and in his work. He is committed to the team’s success and acts as a role model and motivator. For example, one particularly busy night, Jose stepped up to help lead the team and was even able to sell a premier bottle of wine to guests while the table’s Server was busy. His enthusiastic dedication to the providing the best service has led to his upcoming promotion as a Server. We are excited for him to continue his Eataly journey in this new position!

How would you describe your role at Eataly?
“My job is all about being proactive and guaranteeing that everything runs smoothly for both the team and our guests. I handle table setups, restock essentials like water and glassware, and keep an eye on the details of service. If I see a teammate struggling, I step in without hesitation—whether it’s clearing tables, organizing inventory, or making sure tables have everything they need.”

What do you enjoy most about your job?
“Interacting with our guests is the best part of my job. I love providing great service and seeing their appreciation. My English isn’t always perfect, but often words aren’t even necessary—a smile and good energy go a long way. Once when my Server was busy, I recommended a wine to a guest, and they ended up purchasing a very high-end bottle! Moments like that remind me how much I enjoy sharing my knowledge and passion for food and wine.”

What is your favorite memory from your time at Eataly so far?
“One of the most rewarding experiences was serving a well-known rapper without realizing who he was. I treated him just like any other guest, ensuring he had an excellent experience. When he left, he gave me the biggest tip I’ve ever received, and it was then that I noticed his name on his credit card. It reinforced for me that great service speaks for itself, regardless of who the guest is.”

What do you find most exciting about working at Eataly?
“The world of wine fascinates me. I’ve learned so much from our tastings, events, and also from experts like James Suckling. From Nebbiolo to Primitivo to Barbera, every bottle tells a story. I’d love to travel to Italy one day and visit the vineyards to deepen my understanding even more.”

What advice do you have for a fellow Eatalian?
“Always be attentive and proactive. New York in particular is fast-paced, and guests appreciate when we anticipate their needs. Good service is more than just taking orders—it’s about creating an experience. If you take pride in the details and bring a positive attitude, you’ll thrive here.”