We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Leo Matias. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Leo below.
Leo, thanks so much for taking the time to share your insights and lessons with us today. We’re particularly interested in hearing about how you became such a resilient person. Where do you get your resilience from?
I draw my resilience from a combination of personal experiences, supportive relationships, and an unwavering belief in my ability to overcome challenges. Each obstacle I’ve faced has taught me valuable lessons, while the encouragement from family and mentors has fortified my resolve. Additionally, my inner drive and positive outlook keep me focused and motivated, allowing me to persist even in the toughest times.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
I specialize in Restaurant Operations, I’m also the Executive Chef of my brand where I create and design all my menu items. What excites me most about my work is that I can show my creative talents with my food.. I also really enjoy when our guest look at the food and say Wow!!
My restaurant brand is built on a foundation of exceptional quality, genuine hospitality, and a commitment to sustainability. We prioritize sourcing fresh, locally-produced ingredients to create delicious, innovative dishes that reflect our dedication to both flavor and community. Our goal is to provide an inviting atmosphere where every guest feels welcomed and valued, ensuring a memorable dining experience every time.
I am passionate about my restaurant Brand because it allows me to share my love for culinary arts and create memorable experiences for my guests. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with people, and through my restaurant, I can bring joy to others through carefully crafted dishes and warm hospitality. Additionally, I am dedicated to supporting local vendors and sustainable practices, which makes my work meaningful and impactful. Being able to foster a sense of community and see the smiles on our guests’ faces is incredibly rewarding and drives my passion every day.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back, the three qualities that were most impactful in my journey were perseverance, creativity, and effective communication.
1. Perseverance: The ability to stay committed and resilient in the face of challenges has been crucial. The restaurant industry is demanding, and setbacks are inevitable. Staying focused on my goals and pushing through tough times has made all the difference.
Advice: Cultivate a mindset that embraces challenges as opportunities for growth. Set clear, achievable goals and remind yourself of your passion and purpose during difficult times.
2. Creativity: Innovation in menu development, restaurant ambiance, and customer experience has helped set my restaurant apart. Embracing creativity allows me to keep things fresh and exciting for our guests.
Advice: Continuously seek inspiration from various sources—travel, other cuisines, art, and feedback from your customers. DON’T BE AFRAID to experiment and take risks.
3. Effective Communication: Building strong relationships with my team, suppliers, and customers has been key to our success. Clear and open communication fosters a positive work environment and enhances customer satisfaction.
Advice: Develop strong interpersonal skills by actively listening, being empathetic, and practicing clear and concise communication. Regularly engage with your team and customers to understand their needs and expectations.
For those early in their journey, focus on building these qualities by staying dedicated, nurturing your creativity, and honing your communication skills. Surround yourself with supportive mentors and continuously seek opportunities for learning and improvement.
Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?
The most helpful people in my journey have been my Wife (Arpeneh Hovanessian Matias, my family and my mentor Mark MCcabe. Their unwavering support and guidance have been invaluable in helping me overcome challenges and develop the essential skills and qualities needed for success. Mark MCcabe has consistently offered wise advice, shared his own experiences, and provided constructive feedback, which has greatly influenced my growth. Their belief in my potential has inspired me to push through obstacles and strive for excellence in everything I do.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://cilantrolimelosangeles.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZN_6rQXdVPtyVdiIgrpRWOANW0tjCAv3gdzfC4Txvps15GkDiw4C7O754_aem_Acq1cIx1XYXUQw10278dzxI-Tp6xeHcUAkP3sNTCkZ0BoAZ8sQ_MzrqVJ86SG2mgKUizaSay8wfdKe1PW-Bf4aTg
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cilantrolimedtla?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CilantroLimeDTLA?mibextid=LQQJ4d
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