Wendy K.

Wendy started as a Sales Associate at La Pizza & La Pasta, running our Uber operation. She progressed to become a Barback and learned all she could from our Lead Bartender. Her passion for the beverage side of the business was evident, and within a few months, she was a faster service bartender than any seasoned pro. She continues to stay engaged when new cocktails, wines, or menu items are introduced, asking questions and looking for further details to support her sales. Wendy thrives on staying busy and has always been happy to step outside of her specific duties to help others. She also loves to participate in team challenges – from small ones within the restaurant to store-wide challenges like the Winter Walking Challenge this past year. Wendy brings positivity, organization, and energy to the team, and we are lucky to have her as an Eatalian!

What is your background?
“I am from South Korea. There, I went to culinary school and studied Korean, Japanese, and French cuisine along with baking and pastry. I worked as a line cook in professional kitchens. In 2018, I moved to Toronto and worked as a chocolatier and pastry chef. My interest in the food industry began with my mom. She expressed love by preparing amazing meals for our family. I was probably the only student at school who had homemade waffles or muffins for breakfast almost every day. My mom is incredibly talented at baking without measuring ingredients. I thought it looked cool and easy, and it was a way to be with my mom.”

What has your Eataly journey been like?
“I was referred by a friend and joined Eataly in 2023. I started as a Sales Associate in La Pizza & La Pasta, then transferred to a Table Support role and occasionally helped behind the bar. After that, I moved to La Piazza as a Bartender, where I make and serve beverages to our guests, striving to deliver an overall great guest experience with my humble knowledge and expertise. I try to understand each guest’s needs and tailor the experience to meet their expectations. I love seeing guests enjoy the items that I recommend based on their preferences or mood.”

What advice do you have for a fellow Eatalian?
“Don’t be afraid of admitting what you don’t know or asking for help. It’s a great opportunity to learn and grow in the long run. Asking for help doesn’t mean you are incapable, and it could help prevent potential miscommunications.”

What are some fun facts about you?
“I love working out. I enjoy running, F45, HYROX, boxing, hiking, and other activities. My peers at Eataly introduced me to these new experiences, and I really fell in love with them. I also love visiting wineries, breweries, and distilleries whenever I travel. Since I was young, I have always wanted to be just like my mom – genuinely love human beings, always kind and calm, faithful, reliable, energetic, bringing people around her.”