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Zea Recognizes 300 Years of Staff Service During Sept. 5 Breakfast
Sep 10, 2025
On September 5, Zea Rotisserie & Bar celebrated a milestone moment—recognizing more than 300 combined years of service from 15 dedicated team members. The occasion was marked with a special breakfast honoring employees who have made Zea their career home for decades.
This recognition is part of the Restaurant Legends Award, established in 2005 by the Louisiana Restaurant Association to honor individuals with 20 or more years of service at a single establishment. Each honoree received the award for “exemplifying the satisfaction of making their jobs a lifelong and rewarding career.”
LRA President and CEO Stan Harris presented the honors, noted, "This is an incredible testament to the value that Zea places on its team members. To have this many individuals dedicate their careers here is remarkable and inspiring.”
The Zea Story
Founded in 1997 by New Orleans chefs Gary Darling, Hans Limburg, and Greg Reggio—known as The Taste Buds—Zea was inspired by the rotisserie cooking traditions of Provence, France, and the global flavors the chefs encountered in their travels. What began with one restaurant has since grown to 10 locations across the Greater New Orleans area, Lafayette, Baton Rouge, Denham Springs, and Ridgeland, MS.
At the heart of Zea’s success is a simple mission: “to take care of the people who take care of our guests.” This people-first philosophy has fostered one of the lowest turnover rates in the industry, with benefits and perks that include:
- Flexible schedules and closed holidays
- Paid vacation and daily on-demand pay
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage
- Career growth opportunities and mentorship
- Recognition and awards programs
- Wellness and employee assistance programs
Honoring the Legends
The following honorees represent Zea’s “secret ingredient”—its people—who make every guest experience memorable:
- Alan Alvarez, Manager (2005)
- Andy Boagni, Catering & Sales Manager (2005)
- Christille Allen, Bartender (1995–2004; 2015–Present)
- David Speyrer, Line Cook (2005)
- Frederick Johnson, Line Cook (2005)
- Jennifer Castaing, Key Employee (2005)
- John Jarreau, Manager (2005)
- Jarvis Logan, Server Assistant (2005)
- Kevin Guidroz, Chief Operating Officer (2005)
- Kayla Majors, Server (2005)
- Kim Vo, Prep Cook (2005)
- Kristan Williams, Dishwasher (2005)
- Paul Hutson, CEO (2005)
- Stephen Poirrier, Purchasing & Facilities Manager
- Theresa Hayes, Area Director (2005)
For years, Zea has been recognized as one of the Top Places to Work, and this celebration is yet another reminder of the powerful partnership between the restaurant and its team members. Together, they continue to create a culture built on care, connection, and culinary excellence.
Do You Have a Restaurant Legend?
Do you have a team member who has been with your restaurant for 20 years or longer? We’d love to help you celebrate their dedication through the Restaurant Legends Award