Owners

Tina Hurless:
Chef Partner
Education:  BA Double Major English and Communications Florida State University, 1995.  Certified Culinary Degree from Hillsborough Community College, 2000.

Experience: 
Held a variety of positions from lead Garde Manger to Sous Chef of a four star restaurant over a 5-year span before joining the Bistro in 2005. 

Passions: 
Books, travel and scuba.  

Quote:
"When you choose to do something, do it with passion."  

What is the most memorable food experience you’ve had? 
In Madrid, my second day, a small café off of a side street I wandered into after spending the day at the Prado. A glass of Rioja and my journal were my company. I ordered a couple of tapas and started writing. Apparently, I looked contemplative while eating and writing, so the waiter thought I was a food critic. The Chef sent out a few more tapas plates that showcased some of the best Serrano ham and garlic shrimp in pure olive oil I have ever had. He seemed disappointed after we chatted for a little while to realize I was not a critic.

Tomas Carrasquillo III

Managing Partner

Education:  BA Double Major: Political Science/History from the University of Notre Dame, 1996.  JD from the University of Florida, Levin College of Law, 1999.

Experience:
Got his first job in a dining room in 1990 and kept coming back for more as he made his way through school.  Finally returned to the industry full-time in 2001 and has never looked back.  Stops at Carrabba's, Charley's Steakhouse and Mitchell's Fish Market taught him to love the wines of the world and the food they complement.

Passions:
Wine, football and cycling

Quote:
"In vino, veritas"

What is the most memorable food experience that you've had?
I'd love to say it was the tasting menu at Picasso overlooking the Bellagio fountains, or the private dining room at Antoine's in the French Quarter.  However, it all goes back to quiet nights in my Abuelita's kitchen in Puerto Rico, windows open, sound of the coqui in the air and the best food I've ever had.