Artie Padilla,Sous Chef, Chicago, IL
"One of the best things about working here is when the guests walk by, and we have a chance to ask how they liked their dinners. We get compliments on the food. We have the best steaks, the best of everything. No one else compares.
"The secret to my success? It's a family here, and everybody is really nice, so they help you to learn. I've learned from everyone: the chefs, the servers, the managers. They give you the chance to do that here. When I ask, they always say 'yes, I'll teach you,' and they give me the opportunity and the tools to succeed.
"I went to the appreciation banquet in downtown Chicago a few years ago for my 10-year anniversary. My regional manager, one of my other managers, and my mom and dad were all there. I was so happy and proud, and everyone was telling me what a great job I'd done. That moment is still in my head, and in my heart."
