The Culinary Creative Group | Americana Division

Abigail Wellette – Front of House:     We are thrilled to announce Abigail Wellette as Belleview Tap & Burger’s FOH Employee of the Quarter for Q2! Abby has been a beacon of positivity and hard work on the restaurant floor. She consistently works doubles with a smile, always willing to help her coworkers and exemplify the spirit of CCG.

Abby's consistently upbeat attitude and "do whatever is needed" approach have made a significant impact. She steps ups ensuring the restaurant continues to thrive without missing a beat. Her infectious energy, eagerness to learn, and willingness to take on any task make her a rising star in the BTB team. Congratulations, Abby, on this well-deserved recognition!

Mackenzie Opp – Back of House:  

We are excited to announce Mackenzie Opp as Belleview Tap & Burger’s BOH Employee of the Quarter for Q2! Over the past year, Mac has evolved into a skilled line cook and an integral part of the BTB team. Always flexible and willing to cover shifts wherever needed in the kitchen, Mac approaches every task with a positive attitude.

Mac's reliability, punctuality, and dedication are exemplary. Whether filling in wherever needed or taking on additional tasks, Mac consistently works hard with enthusiasm. Congratulations, Mac, on this well-deserved recognition!

Jamin Mcbeth - Front of House:  

We are delighted to announce Jamin McBeth as Highland Tap & Burger’s Employee of the Quarter for Q2! Jamin’s passion for quality work, consistent performance, and extensive knowledge make him an invaluable team member. He excels in attention to detail, cleanliness behind the bar, and timely service.

Jamin's positive attitude, hard work, and excellent rapport with coworkers and guests create a welcoming and motivating atmosphere. Always punctual and supportive of other employees, he has recently managed the bar solo on multiple occasions, showcasing his dedication and reliability. Jamin is a true pleasure to work with, consistently making team members laugh and ensuring a positive experience for everyone in the building. Congratulations, Jamin, on this well-deserved recognition!

Jose Vasquez - Back of House:     

We are thrilled to recognize Jose Vasquez as Highland Tap & Burger’s Employee of the Quarter for Q2! Jose's hard work, efficiency, and positive attitude make him a standout team member. He is always respectful, helpful, and great to work with.

Jose consistently gets the job done and excels as a top performer, always willing to jump in wherever needed while maintaining a positive attitude. With his attention to detail and commitment to quality and excellence, Jose continually goes above and beyond. He is punctual, a true team player, and a beast on the grill. His support for the BOH, especially when short-staffed, is invaluable. Jose's dedication to training new team members and knowing the HTB brand inside out sets a high standard for all. Congratulations, Jose, on this well-deserved recognition!

Lindsey McKinley-Cain – Front of House:  

We are thrilled to announce Lindsey McKinley-Cain as Sloan’s Lake Tap & Burger’s FOH Employee of the Quarter for Q2! Lindsey embodies dedication and excellence in everything she does. Even under pressure, she excels in completing tasks while supporting her team members. She consistently goes above and beyond, whether it's managing schedules with meticulous care, providing hands-on support to her teammates, or ensuring our guests receive exceptional service.

Lindsey’s leadership, positivity, kindness, and willingness to help in any situation make her a true asset to the STB team. Her hard work and dedication do not go unnoticed. Congratulations, Lindsey, on this well-deserved recognition!

Angel Flores-Valadez – Back of House:  

We are excited to announce Angel Flores-Valdez as Sloan’s Lake Tap & Burger’s BOH Employee of the Quarter for Q2! Angel is a back-to-back winner, having also won the EOQ in Q1. He is the epitome of a hardworking and reliable team member, consistently supporting his colleagues with a positive attitude, even after long, hard hours. His bilingual skills add even more value to the team.

Angel stands out as the total package, always accommodating schedule changes and staying late when needed without complaint. He has proven himself to be a solid line cook and a leader in the STB kitchen. Angel's dedication and exceptional performance make him an invaluable asset to the team at Sloan's Lake. Congratulations, Angel, on this well-deserved recognition!

Richard Wallace – Front of House:    We are delighted to announce Richard Wallace as Westminster Tap & Burger’s FOH Employee of the Quarter for Q2! Richie exemplifies hard work and dedication every day he works, consistently proving himself as a dependable and consistent team player. His positive attitude and strong work ethic make him a great asset at WTB.

Richie is always willing to step in and help out, whether it’s behind the bar or filling in other roles as needed. Richie’s flexibility and team spirit keep the mood light and shifts enjoyable. His all-around skills and unwavering dedication make him an invaluable asset to the WTB team. Congratulations, Richie, on this well-deserved recognition!

Rubia Ventura - Back of House:  

We are pleased to announce Rubia Ventura as Westminster Tap & Burger’s BOH Employee of the Quarter for Q2! Rubia is a shining light in the BOH, known for her impeccable work ethic, efficiency, and reliability.

Rubia's unwavering dedication and hard work make her one of the most valued employees in the building, bringing positivity and laughter to her colleagues. Her meticulous and consistent work, coupled with her humorous and joyful demeanor, make her a joy to work with. Rubia's reliability, proficiency, and incredible speed as a dishwasher set her apart. Her hard work and dedication are truly appreciated, and WTB is grateful to have her as part of the team. Congratulations, Rubia, on this well-deserved recognition!

Kellan Wittmann – Front of House:    We are delighted to announce Kellan Wittmann as Fox & the Hen’s FOH Employee of the Quarter for Q2! Kellan exemplifies teamwork and dedication, consistently arriving on time with a positive attitude. Working in one of the busiest areas, he never stops or complains and ensures guests' needs are met after running food. Kellan is an excellent communicator with both guests and staff, showing kindness, empathy, and a strong work ethic.

While fully executing his expo job he also steps in to help the FOH staff bus and polish glassware and silverware. He serves as the bridge between FOH and BOH, maintaining organization and cleanliness on the expo line. Kellan remains cool, calm, and collected, executing his tasks with great efficiency and is in a consistently good mood. Congratulations, Kellan, on this well-deserved recognition!

Andrea Castro – Back of House:  

We are thrilled to announce that Andrea Castro as Fox & the Hen’s BOH Employee of the Quarter for Q2! Andrea is a back-to-back winner, having also won the EOQ in Q1. Her dedication, attention to detail, and incredible work ethic make her an invaluable member of the team. 

Her consistent excellence, unwavering commitment, exceptional performance, and positive attitude inspire everyone around her. Congratulations Andrea on this well-deserved recognition!

Cody Hromidko - Front of House:      We are thrilled to announce Cody Hromidko as Mister Oso – RiNo’s FOH Employee of the Quarter for Q2! Cody's seamless transition from support to server in under six months highlights his exceptional performance and professionalism. Known for his positive attitude, dedication, friendliness, and humor, Cody always steps up for schedule changes and covers shifts on his days off, excelling in various roles, including hosting.

Cody's commitment to efficiency, team spirit, and detailed knowledge of the menu and allergies ensures a great experience for our guests. His exceptional performance, excellent attendance, preparedness, and infectious energy make him an invaluable team member. Congratulations, Cody, on this well-deserved recognition!

Timothy Woodburn - Back of House:   

We are excited to announce Timothy Woodburn as Mister Oso – RiNo’s BOH Employee of the Quarter for Q2! Tim consistently demonstrates reliability, leadership, and a positive attitude. Whether it's coming in on his days off to help, excelling at any kitchen station, or maintaining a friendly demeanor, Tim embodies dedication and skill in a demanding role. 

His ability to handle stress with grace, communicate effectively with FOH staff, and maintain high standards of efficiency make him a standout team member. Tim's unwavering positivity, work ethic, and culinary prowess truly make him deserving of this recognition. Congratulations, Tim!

Nick Kurahara - Front of House:     

We are pleased to announce Nick Kurahara as Mister Oso – Wash Park’s FOH Employee of the Quarter for Q2! Nick has shown exceptional dedication and commitment and has stepped up, taking on extra shifts to ensure smooth operations while maintaining high service standards, crucial for Mister Oso’s success.

Nick's collaborative spirit has strengthened team unity and efficiency, supporting colleagues and fostering a positive work environment. His effective training of new team members has enhanced onboarding and team readiness. Nick's positive attitude and customer-focused approach have earned him glowing reviews, reflecting his exceptional service and friendly demeanor. His contributions have been invaluable, embodying the core values of the Oso WP team. Congratulations, Nick, on this well-deserved recognition!

Alexander Plakorus - Back of House:     We are delighted to announce Alexander Plakorus as Mister Oso – Wash Park’s BOH Employee of the Quarter for Q2! Alex embodies exceptional dedication and support, always ready to assist with a positive attitude and thorough knowledge of Oso’s menu. 

He consistently goes the extra mile, from mentoring new team members to ensuring smooth operations. Alex's hard work and commitment to excellence truly set him apart, making him a valued member of the Oso WP team. Congratulations, Alex, on this well-deserved recognition!

Christopher Pratt - Front of House:    

We are thrilled to announce Christopher Pratt as Senor Bear’s FOH Employee of the Quarter for Q2! Chris embodies the essence of hospitality and professionalism, consistently ensuring every guest enjoys an exceptional experience. 

Starting as a server, Chris excelled before transitioning to bartending, where his mastery of cocktails and dedication to guest satisfaction shine through. His featured creations have become beloved favorites among patrons, a testament to his creativity and skill. Chris is not only reliable and consistent but also a supportive team player, always ready to assist and mentor his colleagues. His commitment to excellence and genuine care for our guests make him a standout member of the Senor Bear team. Congratulations, Chris, on this well-deserved recognition!

Jacob Seawell - Back of House:     

We are excited to announce Jacob Seawell as Senor Bear’s BOH Employee of the Quarter for Q2! Jake has not only maintained a calming and positive presence in the kitchen but has also seamlessly stepped into the role of lead line cook during a crucial period without a head chef. 

His ability to keep morale high while executing tasks at a superior level has been truly remarkable. Jake's professionalism, willingness to take on extra responsibilities without hesitation, and unwavering dedication to the team's success make him an outstanding recipient of this award. He embodies the spirit of leadership and teamwork that we value deeply at Senor Bear. Congratulations, Jake, on this well-deserved recognition!

Joseph Norman - Front of House:      We are thrilled to announce Joseph Norman as A5’s FOH Employee of the Quarter for Q2! Joe's exceptional work ethic, extensive knowledge of food and wine, and willingness to go above and beyond make him an invaluable team member. He consistently supports his colleagues, treats everyone with respect, and maintains a strong working relationship with the kitchen.

Joe's dedication to ensuring both team success and an outstanding guest experience at A5 is unparalleled. He volunteers for the wine program daily and receives rave reviews from guests for his professionalism and expertise. Congratulations, Joe, on this well-deserved recognition!

Jamie Chan Cool - Back of House:    We are excited to announce Jamie Chan Cool as A5’s BOH Employee of the Quarter for Q2! Jamie's punctuality, efficiency, and outstanding attitude make him an invaluable team member. His meticulous attention to detail ensures that all pans and trays are immaculate, greatly benefiting A5’s kitchen operations.

Jamie consistently exceeds expectations and is always ready to help with a smile. His dedication and friendliness have made him a pleasure to work with for over two years. From day one at A5, Jamie has been one of the hardest-working individuals, contributing significantly to the success of the restaurant. Congratulations, Jamie, on the well-deserved recognition!

Kelsy Nichols - Front of House:     

We are thrilled to announce Kelsy Nichols as Ash’Kara FOH Employee of the Quarter for Q2! Kelsy has been an exceptional part of the Ash’Kara FOH team, always ensuring her tables have the best experience while also supporting her colleagues. Her accuracy in ringing orders and her efficiency are unmatched.

Kelsy has also shown great flexibility, helping the team out in any way needed. Her positive attitude makes work enjoyable for everyone. Kelsy consistently goes above and beyond, managing shifts smoothly and interacting with both coworkers and guests with kindness. Congratulations, Kelsy, on this well-deserved recognition!

Joseph Lanoce - Back of House:       We are delighted to announce Joseph Lanoce as Ash’Kara’s BOH Employee of the Quarter for Q2! As Ash’Kara’s lead prep cook, Joe exemplifies dedication and leadership every day. His thoughtful approach to teaching and his mindfulness in handling tasks have been invaluable, especially during a recent kitchen transition.

Joe’s passion for improvement and his positive attitude have made him an anchor for the team. He has embraced his new role, developed effective strategies for the kitchen, and become a mentor to newer team members. His high standards and infectious enthusiasm have greatly contributed to the restaurant’s success. Congratulations, Joe, on this well-deserved recognition!

Jamie Flanagan - Front of House:      We are thrilled to announce Jamie Flanagan as Bar Dough’s FOH Employee of the Quarter for Q2! Jamie's versatility and dedication shine through in every role she takes on within the FOH team. She is quick to assist others and genuinely cares about both guests and staff alike.

Jamie's infectious smile and adaptability make her invaluable in various front-of-house positions. She consistently operates at full speed, using her skills to benefit the entire team. Her positive attitude, exceptional teamwork, and accountability set a high standard for everyone around her. Congratulations, Jamie, on this well-deserved recognition!

Sam Shakibanasab - Back of House:  

We are thrilled to announce Sam Shakibanasab as Bar Dough’s BOH Employee of the Quarter for Q2! Sam's dedication to learning and personal growth is evident every day. She keeps the team motivated with her words of encouragement, even on challenging days, and her positivity uplifts everyone around her.

Recently, Sam has shown remarkable growth and dedication, particularly in her role at the pasta station, where she has excelled. Her talent and positivity make this recognition well-deserved. Congratulations, Sam!

Austin Hume - Front of House:

We are delighted to announce Austin Hume as Kumoya’s FOH Employee of the Quarter for Q2! Austin is a standout performer on the floor, providing an exceptional “X” factor that is rare. He consistently offers help to his fellow servers without compromising his service, which remains exceptional. His willingness to assist has made him an excellent trainer and a go-to person for the staff.

Austin puts tremendous effort into ensuring his customers have memorable experiences, maintaining an organized and steady flow in meal service. As a great team player, he consistently goes above and beyond to support his coworkers and tables, uplifting his colleagues with his positive attitude and regularly checking in to offer help. Extremely knowledgeable about the food and drinks at Kumoya, Austin shares this expertise with others, earning high praise from many customers. As a core employee at Kumoya, he always lifts spirits and helps others grow. Congratulations, Austin, on this well-deserved recognition!

Nathan Houser - Back of House:   

We are thrilled to announce Nathan Houser as Kumoya’s BOH Employee of the Quarter for Q2! Nathan is an exceptionally hard worker, consistently arriving early to set up his station and ensure he's ready to go when the shift starts. He is an excellent fish butcher, generously sharing his techniques and extensive knowledge of Japanese food and culture with the team.

Nathan's dedication is evident in his constant efforts to improve team dynamics and efficiency, as well as in his work on new menu specials. He maintains a positive attitude and works tirelessly to get the job done right. Not only is Nathan an extremely talented chef, but he also keeps everyone smiling and laughing. Nathan ensures that everyone around him grows both professionally and personally, always helping where needed. Congratulations, Nathan, on this well-deserved recognition!