Today we’d like to introduce you to Melea Smith
Hi Melea, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I have been in the Restaurant Industry for nearly 15 years! I started as a server in 2011 when I was going into college in Ohio (where I am from), and worked my way into management once I started studying at SDSU, where I graduated with a Master’s degree in Hospitality Management. I graduated with my Bachelor’s from Concord University in West Virginia, with a degree in Recreation and Tourism management and a minor in Sports Management. I played basketball through college, which helped me learn the how to lead a team, the value of teamwork, and the success it creates from building a strong foundation in a team environment. I always have had the passion of giving people an escape from their day to day lives, which was my driving focus on learning more about the Hospitality and Tourism Industry and ultimately getting me the experience needed, which landed me where I am today leading one of the best restaurants in Southern California.
When I graduated from my Bachelor’s, I wanted to move to America’s Finest City and continue my education at a great school in one of the top tourism cities in America. Moving to San Diego in 2015 has been one of my favorite decisions that I have done in my professional career, as there is so much potential in the city and it is still growing continuously to this day. Everywhere you look, there are fantastic places for dining, entertainment and outdoor activities that makes San Diego special. The restaurant industry is also a small industry in this city, so I have created a lot of friendships and network connections along the way.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
When I first moved to San Diego, I was unfortunately in a serious car accident where a drunk driver hit me while I was on my Vespa scooter. This set me back about a year with my professional goals as I had to physically start over and put my health first, and put my further education on hold. Thankfully, I have been employed with fantastic companies while living here, and they supported me a lot during that period in time. I worked at the Shout House in downtown for nearly 6 years, and the team there really made me feel supported and allowed me to keep my job while I was healing from the accident for nearly 5 months and unable to work. I definitely would not be where I am today without them!
Going through that experience, I do believe it set my mindset to always be in a positive and grateful sense, and that I can achieve anything that I put my mind too. Nothing but great things have come my way since then, and I am so thankful for that!
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I work at Cowboy Star Restaurant & Butcher Shop as the General Manager. I have been with the company for almost 4 years, and general manager for over 2 years. The restaurant has been in East Village for nearly 17 years, and is an institution in the restaurant industry. We specialize in providing a unique experience for our guests, from the moment they walk in they are transported into our environment, with a western feel and a personalized hospitality experience. There are no TVs at the bar area, which results in guests making friends with each other as well as our bar team. This goes directly into my passion of providing an escape to guests from their day to day lives, and I love seeing it unfold with every guest that walks in our door.
We are known for our “Cowboy Star Experience” which is what sets us apart from other businesses. This C-Star experience is noted in every detail, with the initial greet from our host team, each dish that is sent out, even all the way to the silverware placement on our marble tables. From our in-house butcher shop, where all of our steaks are cut daily, to our fantastic pastry team, our dishes are detailed, upscale and have intention behind each plate. We highlight seasonal and local ingredients and have a rotating menu based on what ingredients have the best flavors during certain times of the year. I am so proud of the team that we have, as we have professionals who have the same love for hospitality as I do. A lot of our team members have been there for a long time, some since the first day of being open, which shows how amazing our ownership is and the environment that is provided for our team.
What were you like growing up?
I was all into sports! I ran track, played volleyball, and really focused on basketball since as long as I can remember. I do think I was an extrovert growing up, wanting to be in all the action and be friends with everyone at school. My favorite memories were traveling for basketball, especially in the summers, spending long hours at the gym and in different tournaments in different states, with some of my favorite teammates. My parents were at every game, even through college, which is something I will always remember. They have supported me in every decision and experience that I have been through, even moving across the country with just my car and a few personal items!
Pricing:
- Higher end dining, plan to spend $100 per person while at the restaurant for the full experience (Drinks, Appetizers, Entrees, Desserts)
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.cowboystarsd.com
- Instagram: @cowboystarsd
- LinkedIn: Melea Smith
Image Credits
Arlene Ibarra (Melea Smith Portrait and dining room photo)
James Tran (all food photos)
Zack Benson (Bar Photo)
