5 Questions With…
July 2, 2018 | News
Lauren Choquette, General Manager of Prezzo.
With a strong work ethic and no-nonsense attitude, Lauren Choquette strives for nothing but excellence when it comes to running a restaurant. Choquette started with the company in 2012 as bartender at Deck 84. In just three years she was promoted to front of house manager at Burt & Max’s where she spent the last three years honing her managerial skills and instilling the values of a Rapoport’s restaurant in all of her staff. She now runs the show at Prezzo, as General Manager.
How did you get started in the restaurant industry?
I first started working in the hospitality industry 2005 while I was in college at University of West Georgia. However, it was my time in Tennessee in 2008 that my passion for the hospitality industry grew while working with the Brinker restaurant group as a corporate trainer.
What is your favorite item on the Prezzo menu?
My favorite item on the menu right now is definitely the Vegetable Lasagna. I love that it's an Italian classic with a contemporary spin on it. With the butternut squash "noodles" and eggplant and porcini mushroom Bolognese, its one of those comfort food items you can enjoy without feeling sluggish afterwards. It's a must-try for everyone in my book.
What would people be surprised to find in your fridge at home?
In all honesty, the funniest thing in my fridge right now is my wedding bouquet. I was married TWO years ago! However, I do have a plan on preserving it someday when I get to it.
What is it like to be a female in a male dominated industry?
Empowering is probably the best way to put it. It’s really great to be supported by a company and Burt himself, who encourages growth in his employees, regardless of their gender.
What do you see for the future of Prezzo?
I see continued growth and continued opportunities for our employees to grow. I’d like to see Prezzo as that go-to Italian place for friends or families to gather. Our goal is to offer modern, approachable Italian cuisine. It’s important to us to accommodate all ages and demographics so that anyone would be able to find something here they will enjoy.