Tell us about your career journey 

My journey in hospitality began long before opening my first restaurant. I was born and raised in Albania, and I moved to Connecticut in 1998 with a desire to build a new life and explore new opportunities. I started my career working in some of the region’s most respected kitchens, including Vito’s by the Park, Max’s Oyster Bar, and Max’s Tavern in Springfield, where I learned the importance of hard work, consistency, and creating memorable experiences for guests.

In 2010, I opened my first restaurant, Treva Restaurant & Bar, in West Hartford. What started as a dream quickly grew into a collection of restaurants built around great food, genuine hospitality, and bringing people together.

What has been the most rewarding part of building DORO?

The most rewarding part has been seeing the impact our restaurants have had on our guests, our team, and our community. Restaurants are about more than food. They are places where people celebrate milestones, gather with family and friends, and create memories. Being part of those moments while building a team of talented and passionate people has been incredibly meaningful.

When you're not at work, how do you like to spend your time?

When I’m not in the restaurants, I enjoy spending time with my wife and my two sons. I also love traveling and experiencing new places, cultures, and cuisines. Inspiration can come from anywhere, and exploring the world continues to influence the way I think about food and hospitality.