Meet Giulianna Figueroa | Owner and Executive Chef of “Just a Second!!!” Holistic Dining Services

We had the good fortune of connecting with Giulianna Figueroa and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Giulianna, what is the most important factor behind your success?
The most important factor behind our success is without a doubt our love for the craft. And, when I say “craft,” I don’t just mean our each individual role. The team is passionate about every aspect of our services, and they aspire for the sense of accomplishment that comes with surpassing the expectations of our clientele.

Please tell us more about your work. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
Getting to where I am today was and still is incredibly challenging. Every day I’m faced with “do I really want to do this?” But, every day I realize that’s just my fear talking, and thinking like that won’t get me anywhere. I remind myself of what I want to achieve, and, even though I know that we’re years away from achieving those goals, I know it’ll be worth it. Every time we have a new person join the team, the picture in my head gets that much closer to being finished, and it just completely reinvigorates me.

Something I’ve learned is to keep learning. I have become obsessed with audio books, so I listen to all different kinds from business development and team management to books on spices & everything in between. I even play books for the team while we prep, which they really enjoy, keeps everyone focused, and gives us things to talk about that improve us as a whole.

If there’s anything we want to show, it’s that we do our very best to provide topnotch food, services, and experiences with the best of what Florida has to offer, and we’re only just beginning.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my bestfriend were staying with me the weekend then we’d definitely go to the Ascaso Gallery, the Perez Museum, the Fairchild Tropical Garden, ziplining, and kayaking. As far as eating goes, we’d most likely just head to a market and cook at home, or get some tacos.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My husband first and foremost for always believing in me, even when I didn’t, and for always pushing me to better myself. Second, my young aunts and uncles, along with my grandparents, for always being supportive, and for the endless love given by my extensive family. Lastly, I’d like to thank every Chef and kitchen acquaintance who’s had the hand in mentoring, molding, and inspiring me since first stepping into a kitchen at my mother’s former restaurant, Kitchenette.

Instagram: @chef.giulianna

Linkedin: Giulianna Cesar Figueroa