Miami Living Magazine features the best Miami has to offer. Click on any magazine below and enjoy. You can download our free app on iTunes. Ideal for iPad and iPhone users.
Issue link: https://digital.miamilivingmagazine.com/i/1547432
Kometa: Everything starts with the guest experience. I pay attention to the small details because those are what make the biggest difference. I watch how guests are welcomed, the timing of service, the presentation of the food, and the interaction between our team and the tables. But most importantly, I pay attention to how people feel. I love recognizing returning guests, remembering their favorite wines, and making sure they feel appreciated. Sometimes a simple conversation or a small personal gesture can turn a good dinner into a memorable experience. For me, hospitality is about being present, not just managing a restaurant. ML: What have guests responded to most strongly since opening? Kometa: I think the strongest response has been to the combination of authentic Italian food and genuine hospitality. Of course, guests appreciate the food, the wine selection, and the atmosphere, but what makes me especially proud is how many people return. We have built beautiful relationships with guests who now feel like part of the Da Angelino family. When someone comes back with friends or family because they enjoyed their previous experience, that’s the greatest compliment we can receive. ML: Has Da Angelino evolved in any way that you didn’t anticipate? Kometa: Absolutely. Every restaurant evolves, and one of the most beautiful things about Da Angelino has been seeing how quickly it has become part of the community. We’ve learned a lot from our guests, their preferences, and the way they enjoy the restaurant. We’ve continued refining the menu, improving the experience, and developing our team. What has surprised me most is the personal connection we’ve created with so many people in such a short time. Da Angelino is becoming more than a place to have dinner; it’s becoming a place where people celebrate, reconnect, and create memories. ML: When you have time away from the restaurant, what does a perfect day off look like for you? Kometa: For me, a perfect day off is all about family and enjoying the simple things in life. Nothing makes me happier than spending quality time with my beautiful twins and my wife. With the busy schedule of running a restaurant, those moments together are especially precious to me. I also enjoy occasionally spending time at the church connected to my children’s school. It’s a beautiful way to stay involved in their community and enjoy some peaceful family time. And of course, being Italian, a perfect day wouldn’t be complete without a beautiful meal, a great bottle of wine, and meaningful conversations with the people I love. At the end of the day, spending time with my family, enjoying good food, and creating beautiful memories are what make me happiest. Those are the same values of warmth and togetherness that I try to bring to Da Angelino every day. Da Angelino 3015 Grand Ave. #120, Coconut Grove, FL 33133 Phone: (305) 603-9009 Website: daangelino.com Instagram: @daangelinomiami By ML Staff / Photo Da Angelino