Nicole De Vito, General Manager of Neutral Ground Bar + Kitchen

Meet Nicole De Vito  a spirited cocktail virtuoso with Sicilian roots, anyone she comes in contact with becomes part of the restaurant’s family.  DeVito is hyper focused, and who is bopping around the dining room loaded with energy, remaining busy at all times. She has a palate that knows no bounds and a nose of distinction with level 1 and 2 certification from the WSET [Wine and Spirit Education Trust since 1969.] De Vito is a constant presence, greeting guests and managing the front, and can just as easily craft you the perfect cocktail concoction or recommend an exquisite Nebbiolo.

 

When she's not overseeing operations or training staff on the finer points of service, you'll find Nicole hiking trails, dominating the soccer field, or exploring small cities during her deliberately unplanned travels.

 

Growing up in Maryland with a pastry chef mom, De Vito's culinary curiosity was sparked early on in what 'sweet somethings' came home to her and her siblings to try. Then add in a family from New York City and her second relatives of Mexican heritage, you've got someone who sees hospitality in a genuine, warm, colorful, and purposeful manner.

 

"If I don't recognize it, I have to taste it!" This adventurous spirit extends to De Vito's overall approach, where she balances inventory management with creative approaches collaborating with the bar and kitchen that grew from her most recent experience as Bar Manager at Farmers Restaurant Group in DC. 

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