At Craveworthy Brands, we believe that our team members are the heart and soul of everything we do.
Welcome to our 'Team Member Spotlight' series where we shine a light on the incredible individuals who make up our diverse and talented team across Craveworthy Brands and our concepts.
Meet Rumaldo Beltran Mendoza, our General Manager who focuses on Craveworthy Brands' full-service stir fry concept Flat Top Grill in Downtown Chicago at 30 S. Wabash. Learn more about Mendoza's journey, achievements and favorites!
How long have you been with Craveworthy Brands?
I've been with Flat Top Grill for nearly 15 years and a part of Craveworthy Brands since its inception in 2023.
What's your favorite thing about working here?
Being in an area of Chicago that often receives visitors from around the world, I love that I get the opportunity to meet new people from other countries.
What does a typical day look like for you in your role?
Outside of always taking care of my guests that dine in with us or take out, I always ensure everyone's focused on our weekly goals as well as working closely with our national distributors on orders. Additionally, I take care of many restaurant leadership responsibilities, including our monthly forecast and weekly numbers, food and liquor costs, weekly schedules and more.
What's the most rewarding part of your job?
The most rewarding part of my role as General Manager's the relationships I've cultivated with entire local Flat Top Grill team and the trust we've built together.
What's a project or achievement you're particularly proud of?
An achievement I'm particularly proud of is my Zenput score. 100 percent for the past 15 years and counting!
What's one piece of advice you'd give to someone just starting in your field?
Never be afraid of new challenges, especially if mistakes are made. Always learn from mistakes and take those insights with you.
How do you stay motivated and inspired at work?
I stay motivated and inspired at work by eating well every single day. Flat Top Grill, of course!
Speed Round
- Coffee or tea? Tea, for sure.
- Early bird or night owl? I'm an early bird.
- Favorite vacation destination? No favorite place - I love going on vacation, no matter where it takes me!
- Favorite movie or TV show? My favorite is Dragon Ball Z: The Battle of The Gods.
- Favorite food? One of my favorites from our brands is Yo’ Mamma’s Hot Chicken Sandwich from The Budlong Southern Chicken. But, I really like my traditional Mexican dishes as well.
- One item you cannot live without? My cell phone, LOL!
- Favorite hobby or pastime outside of work? My favorite hobby's soccer and one of my pastimes is playing the guitar.
- If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and why? I'd go to Spain. I would like to visit the soccer field that's home to Real Madrid.