Ricardo Solano
Ricardo Solano, el Restaurante's 2017 Manager of the Year
Mexican restaurant managers from San Francisco, Florida, Utah, and Lawndale, California have been named the top restaurant managers of 2017 in the el Restaurante Manager of the Year Contest, sponsored by Jarritos.
Ricardo Solano, assistant general manager of Nick's Crispy Tacos in San Franciso, is the Manager of the Year. "Ricky has a talent for handling all types of situations, whether it be a conflict between other staff members or accommodating unique customer requests the situation is always resolved and all sides end up happy," wrote Peter Billeci, owner of Nick's Crispy Tacos, in his nomination of Solano.
Romeo Herrera, general manager of Zona Fresca in Coral Springs, Florida, won second place. "Our employees have formed Family Romeo," wrote Denisse Ruiz, a former coworker who nominated Herrera. "He brings everybody together to the point where every holiday we get together. Who wants to spend their holiday with coworkers? WE DO!"
Jake Bright, general manager of Salsa Leedos Mexican Grill and Cantina in Riverton, Utah, won third place. "Jake is always willing to sit down an an employee and talk to them, whether it is about work or personal," wrote Travis Bonino, owner of Salsa Leedos, in the nomination. "He believes in everyone and is always willing to give someone a chance to try out a job."
And a special "Lifetime Achievement Award" was given to Rosario Cuadras, manager of Leo's Mexican Food in Lawndale, California. Cuadras has been manager there for 50 years! "Leo's growth could not have been achieved without the perseverance and dedication of Chito as an exceptional manager at Leo's for over 50 years," wrote Lionel Presiado, owner of Leo's, in the nomination.
All four winners will receive checks and certificates. Look for complete details, including interviews with the winners, in the Oct/Nov/Dec issue of el Restaurante.