Greenville: A Family’s Journey into Entrepreneurship
In the heart of Greenville, South Carolina, the Montoto family is crafting an inspiring tale of perseverance and passion that embodies the spirit of entrepreneurship. With a legacy in the restaurant industry, they are paving the way for future generations to follow their dreams.
From Dishwashing to Restaurant Ownership
Lazaro Montoto’s journey is nothing short of remarkable. Having moved from Miami, he was no stranger to hard work, starting off in the restaurant business as a 14-year-old dishwasher. Fast forward to today, he’s the proud owner of 15 Tropical Grille locations, each serving up delicious Cuban cuisine with his unique twist. “When we first moved to Greenville, my wife Shadid really missed the flavors of home,” Lazaro recalls. “With a little inspiration from her cravings during her pregnancy, I took the plunge to start my first restaurant.”
His path wasn’t easy, though. Lazaro had to climb the restaurant ladder from the bottom. “I was just a kid trying to help my family,” he said. With dedication and determination, he transformed his passion for cooking into a thriving business. “I started as a dishwasher and eventually bugged my chef enough to learn the ropes. That’s how I became a chef, then a server, and finally a restaurant manager.” When he established Tropical Grille in 2010, he was driven by the joy of sharing his culture’s flavors with a whole new audience.
A Family Affair
What makes the Montoto story even more engaging is how it truly is a family affair. Lazaro and Shadid work hand-in-hand at Tropical Grille, managing operations and ensuring every guest leaves with a smile. Their daughter, Madison Montoto, has been involved since she was 13, learning the ins and outs of the family business. But this ambitious young woman has not stopped there. At just 19, she’s taken a leap of faith to open her own boutique, Madison’s Boutique, located on Scuffletown Road in Five Forks.
Madison initially thought she would simply join her parents in their culinary endeavors. However, she soon realized that her passions lay elsewhere. “It was scary to think about branching out on my own,” she admitted. “I had this idea that I wanted to pursue my passion for fashion and create my own brand.” After pitching her business plan to her parents, Madison gained their support and has since embarked on her own entrepreneurial journey.
Challenges and Triumphs
Running a boutique at such a young age has its challenges. Madison often finds herself missing out on social events just to focus on her business. “I see my friends enjoying college life, and sometimes it feels isolating,” she said. However, she feels incredibly motivated by her parents’ work ethic. “Watching them achieve their dreams, step by step, has inspired me to carve out my own path.”
Lazaro echoes this sentiment. “I want my kids to chase their dreams and know that hard work pays off,” he stated passionately. As Madison builds her boutique, she is wholeheartedly embracing the entrepreneurial spirit that runs in her family.
Looking Ahead
With plans to expand her boutique and her father’s ambitions for Pasta Project, a fast-casual Italian eatery they opened in 2023, the Montotos are setting the stage for a family legacy built on hard work, creativity, and shared dreams. When asked about the future, Lazaro beams with pride, “We’re always looking for the next opportunity to connect with the community and serve great food.”
As the Montotos navigate their journeys of growth and innovation, they remain grounded in their struggles and victories. Their story is a shining example of how resilience and passion can turn dreams into reality right here in Greenville.
