Meet Diego. His name shows up often in On The Nines' most glowing online reviews. Diego joined the On The Nines hospitality team after visiting us for our Sunday brunch and has been charming guests ever since!
Born in Philadelphia and raised in Buenos Aires, Diego spent the better part of 35 years in Miami, where he held numerous roles in the hospitality industry at Miami's finest hotels. He was a server and then high-end steakhouse manager at a 1,000 room hotel, director of housekeeping and spa rooms, as well as a manager of room service and mini bars for two other hotels. Ultimately Diego returned to food service, a role that he says makes him happiest as he enjoys interaction with people of all cultures and backgrounds while also allowing the flexibility for him to enjoy world travel, a passion he shares with his wife, Lynn.
Diego and his wife plan trips every three months, driven by Lynn's desire to "catch up" after retiring from a 40 year career that didn't permit nearly enough time to travel. Their trips take them far and wide, including regular visits to family back in Argentina and to see their daughters. Diego boasts a 50 year collection of paper money from many of his destinations and has amassed notes from every country and known island.
Of course while travelling Diego always insists on trying the local fare, sampling unique and sometimes exotic foods from dozens of countries. He admits that he and his wife share a natural charm that makes it easy for them to talk to strangers in any place they visit - a talent that has certainly been honed both by many years of travel as well as his extensive experience in hospitality. A great listener, Diego strives to make the guest's dining experience at On The Nines something truly memorable, while getting to know them. He'd rather hear what folks have to say than listen to his own voice - but he admits his distinctive accent often serves as a great conversation starter for diners curious about his background.
When not on the move, Diego enjoys playing pickleball and loves to cook. Angel Hair Pomodoro and Chicken Champignon are his favorites at home, where he is often the sous in the kitchen alongside Lynn. At the restaurant, his go-to is Chef Steve's Rack of Lamb, Pork Chop, or the catch of the day, paired with an Old Fashioned from the bar. If there's room for dessert he recommends the crème brûlée.
If you'd like a dining experience with Diego in the next few weeks, you'll want to make a reservation soon! Soon after the new year he and Lynn are off to cruises in the Caribbean and the South Pacific before heading back to dry land for an Alaskan hiking expedition.