Brightening Someone’s Day: Harvey Grillo

Harvey Grillo

Food and Beverage Manager - The Memphian

Harvey Grillo has only been with The Memphian for a few months as the Food & Beverage Manager, but he’s made a big impression in a very short time. In fact, one guest went so far as to call him the “guardian angel” of property! A large group stayed a weekend for a reunion party, and thanks in a large part to Harvey’s attention, the hotel accommodated them perfectly. He assisted with maintenance and oversaw their time at The Tiger & Peacock and The Complicated Pilgrim. We’re betting the group members return to The Memphian soon.

Meet Harvey Grillo!

How did it feel to be called the guardian angel of The Memphian?

It felt so amazing. They were a large group in town from all over the country, and it was a really cool experience to see them come together and have a good time. I was glad to aid in those special moments. It's kind of why I do what I do.

What got you started in the hospitality industry?

The restaurant business has always been there for me – through college and after. I bounced around some different industries into the fitness realm and into some politics. I think my heart always stayed with the restaurant industry. Making experiences special drew me back. I'm a people person by heart and by nature, and it's always been cool to share special moments with people, whether it's Grandma's 99th birthday and everybody's coming together to celebrate her. And I’ve been there to wait on them as a server all the way up to now, where I'm instructing others. I enjoy teaching servers and bartenders the ropes and making sure that guests are experiencing the things that I'd love to see.

What advice would you give to somebody who is coming into the industry for the first time?

Just have fun! I mean, it's easy to get caught up in the day-to-day stress, especially when the restaurant's busy and you're in the weeds. I would say that at the end of the day, it's just dinner and folks come out looking for a good time and our job is to give it to them. That's just the beauty of it. 
Great advice, Harvey! Thank you for sharing with us!