Meet Gislaine Rodriguez | Paster Chef & Owner

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

Hi Gislaine, every day, we know how much execution matters, but we think ideas matter as well. How did you come up with the idea for your business?
The idea for my business actually started pretty unexpectedly. One year, I was planning my daughter’s birthday and wanted to get an assortment of custom desserts—but I couldn’t find anyone local who could make them in time. So, I decided to take matters into my own hands and make them myself. I didn’t think too much of it at the time—I just wanted something special for her.

But at the party, everyone kept asking where I got the desserts from. When I told them I made everything myself, they were surprised and immediately started encouraging me to start selling them. They mentioned how hard it was to find custom desserts in our area, and that really stuck with me. So, I began making desserts from home and selling to friends and family, and it just grew from there.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My journey in this industry has been anything but easy, but it’s one I carry with so much pride and gratitude. In the beginning of my professional career, I had the opportunity to work alongside some truly remarkable individuals — people who helped mold me into the professional I am today. They were tough, no doubt. At times, I felt the pressure deeply, but looking back, I realize those challenges were necessary. They pushed me, sharpened me, and taught me lessons I couldn’t have learned any other way. For that, I am beyond grateful.

What sets me apart is not just the product I offer, but the heart and soul behind it. Every pastry, every detail in my work carries a story — a story of resilience, passion, and the pursuit of excellence. Zoe Sweet Tooth isn’t just about sweet treats; it’s about creating something that brings joy, comfort, and a touch of home to people’s lives.

I’m most proud of how far I’ve come — not just in numbers or business growth, but in personal strength. There were moments when giving up seemed easier, but I’ve learned that staying humble and focused on the bigger picture is what keeps you grounded. This industry can be demanding, but it also teaches you to love the process, not just the outcome.

I want the world to know that behind my brand is someone who truly cares. Someone who has poured years of learning, emotion, and passion into every detail. Zoe Sweet Tooth is built on the belief that great things take time, that authenticity matters, and that the sweetest successes come from the hardest work.

So to anyone chasing their dreams — know this: your path won’t always be smooth, but it will shape you. And if you stay focused, stay humble, and keep your heart in it, you’ll build something that not only grows, but inspires.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Day 1: Arrival & Waterfront Welcome
Check-in: Choose a beachfront hotel like the Pelican Grand Beach Resort or The Ritz-Carlton, Fort Lauderdale for luxury and ocean views.

Evening: Stroll along the Riverwalk, a scenic promenade by the New River, offering picturesque views and access to shops and cafes.

Dinner: Dine at Boatyard, known for its seafood and waterfront ambiance.​
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Day 2: Spa Indulgence & Fine Dining
Morning to Afternoon: Relax at the Four Seasons Spa, offering luxurious treatments in a serene setting.

Evening: Enjoy dinner at Evelyn’s at the Four Seasons, offering Mediterranean-inspired dishes.​

Day 3: Brunch & Beach Day
Brunch: Experience Mermaids & Mimosas at B Ocean Resort, featuring live mermaid performances and bottomless mimosas.

Afternoon: Relax at Dania Beach, known for its tranquil atmosphere, clean sands, and the scenic Dania Pier.

Evening: Casual dinner at Quarterdeck on the pier, offering seafood with ocean views.​
All World Travel Blog
PlanetWare

Day 4: Plantation Walk & Entertainment
Morning: Explore Plantation Walk, a modern, pedestrian-friendly district with shops, restaurants, and public spaces.

Lunch: Dine at one of the local eateries within Plantation Walk.

Evening: Attend a performance at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, hosting Broadway shows, concerts, and more. ​
Plantation Walk
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Day 5: Art & Culture
Morning: Visit the NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale, featuring contemporary art and notable collections.

Lunch: Enjoy a meal at a nearby café on Las Olas Boulevard.

Afternoon: Explore boutiques and galleries along Las Olas Boulevard.

Evening: Dinner at OCEAN2000 at Pelican Grand, offering oceanfront dining with locally inspired dishes. ​
Wikipedia
All World Travel Blog

Day 6: Leisure & Local Flavors
Morning: Optional spa treatments or beach relaxation.

Afternoon: Visit local markets or take a boat tour along the Intracoastal Waterway.

Evening: Dinner at S3 (Sun, Surf & Sand), known for its sharable plates and ocean views.​

Day 7: Farewell Brunch & Departure
Brunch: Enjoy a farewell brunch at The Foxy Brown, offering comfort food with a twist.

Afternoon: Last-minute shopping or a final stroll along the beach before departure.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
A huge shoutout to my best friend and life partner—thank you for always believing in me, pushing me to grow, and never letting me give up on my dreams. Your love and support mean everything. And to my family and friends who’ve been by my side since day one, I truly couldn’t have done this without you. Your unwavering encouragement kept me going when I needed it most. I’m forever grateful.

Website: https://www.zoesweettooth.com

Instagram: zoesweettooth1

Facebook: zoe sweet tooth

Yelp: zoe sweet tooth

Image Credits
Alfonso Morales my business partner.