Waiters/waitresses are the world’s oldest influencers – they tell us what to eat (and drink) whenever we dine out. And we often take their advice without watching hours of their videos to determine if they’re trustworthy. We sat down with some of our local influencers to get to know the folks who influence our choices.
Yolanda Pace
Server & bartender, 18 years
Bacio, Cross River
Do you consider yourself an influencer?
I’ve never thought of myself that way, but I see your point. The way I see it, I want you to feel like you’re home, and I try to treat people like I want to be treated. Here, it’s personal.
What is it like to work at Bacio?
I’m always happy to be here, even if I’m having a bad day, it all changes. It’s the people – the coworkers are my family, and I love my customers. I love being a part of their lives and making that personal connection. Food is personal; it’s not just about influencing their choices. When you break bread with someone, it’s personal.
What is your number one rule when making recommendations?
Honesty. But first, I like to get to know them and know what they like. It’s not that difficult to suggest something when you know the person.
What do you wish more people would take you up on?
The trout. Nobody makes trout like Bacio. I’ve had it elsewhere, and I’m disappointed every time.
Is there a recommendation you would like to make, but you know it won’t be well-received?
Pair a red wine with fish. A nice, light red wine will go lovely with the fish.
What’s the best thing about your job?
I love what I do, and if you leave here feeling like it’s your home, I did my job. I’m never leaving; I’ll be here in my walker. Just put me in the corner and give me my vodka!
What’s an experience you’ll never forget?
I have so many, but here’s a recent one. Several weeks ago, a couple came in, and I served them a cocktail at the bar. They were a lovely, beautiful couple. Then, they sat down at their table. At the end of the night, we’re cleaning and they’re still here, and I hear him say to her, “Impossible – $75 to get an Uber? This is crazy. We cannot afford this.” I offered to help, and he asked for the phone number of a cab, but they also wanted to charge an incredible amount. So, I offered to bring them home. She was embarrassed, but he said, “Yes, please, thank you so much.” In the car, I learned that she’s a teacher – she’s changing lives! So I made a new friend. Now we text each other.
What’s your favorite dish?
Garganelli alla zafferano. It’s something you don’t eat every because you know it’s bad for you. But there are some vegetables in it, so it gives me the illusion that I’m doing good.
Gia Miller is an award-winning journalist and the editor-in-chief/co-publisher of Connect to Northern Westchester. She has a magazine journalism degree (yes, that's a real thing) from the University of Georgia and has written for countless national publications, ranging from SELF to The Washington Post. Gia desperately wishes schools still taught grammar. Also, she wants everyone to know they can delete the word "that" from about 90% of their sentences, and there's no such thing as "first annual." When she's not running her media empire, Gia enjoys spending quality time with friends and family, laughing at her crazy dog and listening to a good podcast. She thanks multiple alarms, fermented grapes and her amazing husband for helping her get through each day. Her love languages are food and humor.
