In this episode of CULINARY MECHANIC, Simon Zatyrka welcomes Luca—a seasoned front-of-house professional with roots in Italy and a career forged in the heat of both European and American restaurants. What begins as a story of necessity (a broke college student in Milan needing date money) evolves into a decades-long pursuit of true hospitality mastery.

Luca shares raw, funny, and insightful stories from the floor: from navigating rude guests and chaotic services to building genuine guest loyalty and understanding the invisible tension between the front and back of house. This conversation dives into ego, burnout, tip pooling, leadership, and why—more than ever—human connection is the ultimate skill in hospitality.

Whether you're a chef, GM, or line-level server, this is a must-listen episode for anyone serious about ...