Deandra Daniely, from Lansing, Michigan, to the heart of downtown Orlando, Deandra’s path in hospitality has been defined by persistence, growth, and a deep appreciation for her craft. She moved to Florida at 18, following her mother, and quickly found herself immersed in the restaurant scene. Starting at a local pizzeria before moving on to roles at Benihana, Bosphorous, and eventually becoming a corporate trainer with a major restaurant group.

Deandra joined Kres Chophouse after spotting an opening on Indeed, initially applying to bartend but quickly proving her range across the floor. Since then, she has worn multiple hats: bartender, host, and server, and credits Kres with helping her refine her wine knowledge, culinary understanding, and overall excellence in service. “This is all I’ve ever done,” she says, “and Kres has made me better at every part of it.”

More than just a workplace, Kres feels like home for Deandra. She describes the leadership as thoughtful and genuinely invested in their team, from giving staff time off for holidays to offering mutual respect that’s rare in the industry. One of her most cherished traditions is making tamales every year with fellow team member Mary, a nod to her love for Mexican cuisine and the friendships formed through food and shared culture. At Kres, Deandra isn’t just part of the staff; she’s part of the family.