Palmer Trinity School

tolerance for incompetence and lack of respect, mixed with her genuine love of teaching truly inspired [him] and academically kept [him] in check." To this day, he runs his business with this discipline and passion in mind. Restaurants Costa started a Greek restaurant called Calista Taverna and a cafe called Calista Cafe. He hopes to soon extend the cafe into the store next door and make it a Greek wine bar. Costa was able to bring the feel of Greece to Coral Gables. He even directly and personally picked out Greek furniture in Mykonos. In regards to the food, Costa "aims to sell quality food that is always fresh." He recommends a glass of Greek wine, Assyrtiko, and fresh fish. When asked about Loretta and The Butcher, Costa explains that the restaurant was opened in March 2020 when the COVID pandemic was just beginning. Costa remembers that it was "very difficult to operate with all the restrictions and lack of staff. But [they] worked hard, gave exceptional service, and had a value- driven menu, which allowed [them] to build a strong local following." And lastly, Costas' most recent restaurant is called Johnny Pappagallo. It took over Swenson's, a restaurant which was there for 44 years. Costa comments that "every true Miami resident has been to Swenson's one point in their life." He is especially proud of keeping the authenticity of this Miami locale in tack. The interior of Johnny Pappagalloi is made up of 70% of the original Swenson's decor, even though the vibe was drastically changed to an old-school New York-style Italian Tavern. Johnny Pappagallo pays homage to Swenson's not only in its decor but in its menu as well. Costa explains that while "serving dishes like veal chop Milanese, truffle porcini lasagna, and traditional tiramisu, we also kept an ice cream selection on the menu. And as a result, this is the one restaurant my kids beg me to go to every weekend." Advice Costa advises potential restaurateurs to "forget about glamor and novelty. The restaurant industry is all about sacrifices that don't usually come with running other businesses. Since I am truly passionate about my work, the rewards do justify the sacrifices." Beginning in the Industry Javier Uribe entered the restaurant industry at 15 years old as a busboy in a now closed pizzeria owned by a family friend, Maurizio. His father was a firm believer in kids developing a sense of responsibility and learning to manage money and understand personal finance through a job. Maurizio would later become a great influence in Javier's professional life. Javier continued working at the restaurant every consecutive summer break until he graduated from Palmer Trinity School. He then attended George Washington University where he studied business, hospitality and management. Javier returned to Miami where he eventually opened Strada with his family. After its success, a few years later they opened Farinelli right across the street. Inspirations Javier emphasizes two inspirations, the Coconut Grove community and his time working in a restaurant. Javier now owns Strada and Farinelli 1937, both nestled in the lively community of Coconut Grove. Javier was always inspired by the Coconut Grove Community. He has lived there all his life and feels very connected to it. His restaurants have helped the neighborhood thrive and return JAVIER FELIPE URIBE ' 10 S T R A DA IN T HE GROV E A ND FA R INEL L I 19 3 7 (C OMMODOR E HO SPI TA L I T Y GROUP) 53

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