Roy DiMestico
Friday - August 25, 2006 Share |
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Roy DiMestico
Roy DiMestico is the assistant manager in charge of guest relations at Ola at Turtle Bay. He also works as a server at the beachfront North Shore restaurant, because he loves to interact with customers. Here he talks about first coming to Hawaii and working at one of the most beautiful restaurants in the Islands.
Age: 48
Job Title: Assistant Manager/Server/Guest Relations Manager at Ola.
What got you started in the industry?
I started in the kitchen as a dishwasher on Cape Cod and then took all the steps upward. When I got to be a server I just loved it, and knew I’d found what I wanted to do.
Why do you think it appealed so much?
It’s the people. I love seeing customers happy, and for me it’s all about dining out, not just eating. I like finding out where people are from, and seeing the joy when they taste our food.
What do you think people want in a server?
Well, for me, I love to find out who our customers are. Where they’re from, where’re they’ve been on their vacation, and I love to recommend things for them to do while they’re here so they get an opportunity to see the beauty of Hawaii.
Where do you like to eat when you’re not at work?
Fred’s (Chef Fred DeAngelo) house. There are always great chefs hanging out there. I also like Town, Wasabi Bistro and Sansei Seafood Restaurant and Sushi Bar.
Who are your favorite people to wait on?
Believe it or not, I like waiting on kids! I gear my waiting skill toward children and I love to see the excitement on their faces when they talk about their Hawaii vacation. It reminds me of how I felt when I first came here.
Where did you come to Hawaii from?
From Oregon. I was born and raised in Michigan, and when I got to Hawaii I cried. I thought it was the most beautiful place I’d ever seen.
What’s the worst thing a server can do when working?
I hate to see inattentiveness; when you see guests looking around for someone to help them. Servers need to anticipate needs - and be around.
What’s the best thing a guest can do to be a great customer?
Be understanding of situations that arise. The unexpected does happen.
Who’d you most like to invite for dinner at Ola?
My best friend Tim, and Marilyn Monroe.
How do you describe Ola to people who’ve not yet been?
I tell them it’s like a tree house on the ocean with unbelievable food.
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