Meet Veruska Chalbaud | Restaurant Owner

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

Hi Veruska, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
The growth of my business has required a constant increase in personal dedication and innovation which has required me to search for a certain sense of balance. On this quest for a balanced life, I have learned that when my work team feels a sense of belonging and happiness to be a part of this business then everything flows from the heart. The work evolves to another level of focus and strives for perfection. On the other hand, this pandemic has provided a chance for my family to be involved in the business and has involuntarily transmitted a passion in their lives for this restaurant. Through all of these factors, we have reaped what we have sown and have given life to new ideas and a fun creative environment. At last, my experience has been to walk hand in hand with these changes rather than resisting them. For me, balance is giving each and every important aspect of my life the value and dedication that it deserves.

What should our readers know about your business?
Visiting El Pimiento allows you to explore your five senses through new and unique Spanish flavors, colorful and folkloric decoration and happy live music. All these elements come together to create a memorable experience for our customers! My biggest reward is that instant feedback from our clients as they leave the restaurant saying “todo estaba delicioso”. Our biggest challenge has been exposure to new customers since we’re located in a small shopping center of Miami Lakes, and the restaurant is not easy to spot. To overcome this challenge, we’ve put a lot of focus on marketing and social networks, online reviews and world of mouth recommendations. We’re known for dishes like “Bombones”, which is another name for croquetas de jamon Serrano, garbanzos fritos and the famous Paella Valenciana; so take a little trip to Spain without getting on a plane and like one our client said: “Do not check your watch, be transported to Spain and order lots of tapas, This place is enchanting and very quaint!”

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
On a week long trip with a friend, I would like to show them all the different things you can do in Miami and emphasize on the diverse culture that makes up this city. First, I would take them to Miami Beach, a staple of Miami. Spending the day lounging on the beach of South Pointe while sipping on a fresh juice from Pura Vida. I would then put on my walking shoes and walk through Ocean Drive which is filled with life and energy. The next day would be spent between the skyscrapers of Brickell and the art of the Wynwood walls. The Perez Art Museum is worth a visit to admire the art inside as architecture of the building, which is located right on the water. Walking around this area, you can ride the newly instantly ferris wheel and get some great views of the city and the bay. A quick food stop at the Brickell City Center would also be in order with great options like Pubelly if you are in the mood for Japanese food or Full Bloom if you are vegan. The remaining days would have to be dedicated to seeing the culture that shaped the city and its people, such as Calle 8. You can drink a cortadito while walking down this road and eat some croquetas while admiring the different shops and art on the walls, as well as admire the older men and women playing Domino. There are countless more areas, restaurants and sights to visit plus don’t forget your trip to Miami Lakes to visit us at El Pimiento!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Town of Miami Lakes has been a strong supporter of our business

Website: www.elpimientorestaurant.com

Instagram: @elpimientorestaurante

Facebook: El Pimiento Restaurant

Yelp: El Pimiento Restaurant