“Eric Valdivieso has been the “face” of one of the world’s most special restaurants. Whenever I would stick my head in the door to see if there were seats at the bar available, Eric would be there, offering a firm handshake, a warm, welcoming greeting to “Dr. Sulkowicz”, and a nod indicating that he would do his best to get me a coveted seat inside. Most of the time, the answer was a reassuring “right this way”, but when it was a disappointing “no” - always because I had arrived too late - Eric displayed his characteristic empathy, and the knowing reassurance that I would get one next time. Over the course of one of those many exceptional meals, he would unobtrusively drop by to make sure everything was alright - he really meant it - and it always was more than just “alright”. It was transcendent, and a big part of that experience was the tone of warm, crisp professionalism that Eric set at the door, and carried through into the always-predictable, always delightful evening. Eric knows his customers and makes sure they’re comfortable and satisfied throughout, and treats new ones like they’re just as important as the regulars like me. He is knowledgeable, worldly, friendly, and kind, and never misses a detail. In overseeing the service at a fine restaurant, the “little things” add up to "big things”; every detail matters and creates memories for customers, and Eric is finely attuned to their needs and wishes. Eric knows the meaning of “hospitality” more than any professional I’ve ever encountered, and is eminently qualified to train the next generation.”