Staff Highlight: Caitlyn Reed
We are so lucky to have an incredible team here at the Easton Porter Group and across our top-notch properties in Charlottesville, Virginia and Charleston, South Carolina. We have been highlighting some of our amazing industry-leaders here on the blog. Our team members are the heart and soul of what we do, and we hope you’ll appreciate them as much as we do!
Today, we are highlighting Caitlyn Reed, a bartender at Red Pump Kitchen in Charlottesville, Va. Caitlyn is originally from Lexington, Virginia, and moved to Charlottesville after high school. Since moving there, she has worked in many different restaurants in all areas of front of house, but bartending is her favorite role because of its hands-on and creative aspects. After six years in Charlottesville, Caitlyn believes that restaurants are where she is supposed to be!
Check out the following Q&A with Caitlyn to learn more, then head over to Red Pump Kitchen on the Charlottesville Downtown Mall to see her bartending skills firsthand!
When/Where did your interest in the restaurant industry begin? How long have you been working at Red Pump Kitchen?
My first restaurant job in Charlottesville was as a host at Mono Loco. Even though I was so young and incredibly shy, I found the fast-paced restaurant environment to be so exciting and addictive. It’s so hard to walk away from this line of work once you start. I have been working at RPK since August of 2015, so almost two years now!
What’s your favorite part about working at Red Pump Kitchen?
My favorite part about working at RPK is definitely the supportive staff. When I walk into work, I know that I can turn to anyone there for help. (Shout out to Jake Boggs for always being there for me when I need him!) A positive work environment is a must, also, and you definitely get that at RPK.
What’s your favorite dish on the menu?
My favorite dish is definitely the lobster tortellini. It’s a must-have. Cheesy tortellini and a super creamy, rich lobster sauce? You can’t go wrong.
What do you like to do in Charlottesville in your time off?
I spend a lot of time outside of work with my fiancé, Vincent Falcone (sous chef at Tavola) and our Doberman puppy, Sigmund. We like to go hiking as much as possible and visit some great nearby vineyards on our days off. When I’m just hanging out at home by myself, I’m probably reading a bartending book or cooking.
