Grove Life | Spring 2021

The Five Foodies

“Food is maybe the only universal thing that really has the power to bring everyone together. No matter what culture, everywhere around the world, people eat together.” - Guy Fieri

Guy Fieri’s statement couldn’t be truer, as embodied by our diverse and exquisitely talented culinary and food service team. With over 120 years of combined experience, these fine gentlemen are dedicated to indulging your palates in the universal language of gastronomy, and providing exceptional service along the way. Led by Executive Chef Dominick Laudia, the Food & Beverage team is a melting pot of cultures that inspire some of the world’s most renowned cuisine. From Italian and Peruvian to the Caribbean, these intimate inspirations reveal themselves in the undeniable food variety that BG members continuously enjoy. Before travelling abroad to get to know your team, let’s begin state-side in New York, where Sous Chef Steven Miro graduated from Syracuse University with a degree in… Finance! In 2008, Steven moved to Florida to realize his path and pursue a culinary career. Chef Steve joined the Boca Grove team in 2018. Also a NY native, Chef Dominick moved to Florida in 1994 fromLong Island, and began at Boca Grove in 2012. In recognition of his exceptional standards, exemplified through certification, continued training, culinary competitions and community involvement, he was honored with the 2016 National American Culinary Federation Dr. L.J. Minor of Professionalism award and the 2016 Southeast Region Title for the ACF Chef Professionalism Award. David Sirko, Chef de Cuisine, is no stranger to awards, winning Chef of the Year in 2004 for the Palm Beach County’s Chef Association. Chef David is a member of The American Culinary Federation and a Certified Executive Chef. Of Slavic and Dutch

descent, Chef Dave is one of eight siblings! From large families to growing families Chef Steve is excited to be soon expecting his first child. Congratulations, Steve! Family man is how Food & Beverage Manager Craig Jarrett would describe himself, most enjoying his time at home with his three children. Coming from a family of restaurant owners, Craig was drawn to the service side of the business at a young age. Born and raised in Rose Hall, Montego Bay, the tourism capital of Jamaica, Craig was inspired to study hospitality. Craig’s career boomed in luxurious hotels and clubs. Naturally, Craig’s professional accreditations include Club Manager’s Association, and even Sommelier. He’s even a licensed paramedic! Craig isn’t the only Sommelier on the team. In addition to wine steward, did you know that Mario Olarte is an internationally certified cheese expert, known as a Monsieur Fromage? Mario found his passion at a young age, as his father was a part owner in a cheese making factory. On a monthly basis, Mario takes members around the world, where he delves into a select region’s cheese and wine specialties in an educational 1-hour tasting event – Cheese, Wine & Everything Fine. Mario’s knowledge is impressive! So whether you sign up for the next cheese and wine event, enjoy nightly specials or host your next private event at Boca Grove, your experience will surely involve a special touch from each of these passionate and inspired professionals!

Vision Inspire and enable members to enjoy every day of their lives.

8 | www.bocagrove.org