We are Hi Hospitality Group - a high touch operator of dining destinations in Florida with focus on inviting collaboration, integrating technology and inspiring excellence. Like the artichoke, we have a tender heart at our core, protected by layers and layers of strong leaves: our people. We are driven by the love that we carry in our hearts: a love of dining, a love of family, respect, communication and service.
Founder: Natalia Levey
Nurturing appetites, uplifting spirits, and shaping the hospitality sector, Natalia brings to the table a rich tapestry of international culinary and wellness expertise, enriched by her travels through over 40 countries. Trained at the Art Institute of New York and a graduate of the Institute for Integrative Nutrition, she's also a certified nutritional consultant accredited by the American Association of Nutritional Consultants. Her steadfast commitment to wellness and optimism is a catalyst for transformative shifts within the hospitality landscape. Honored as a 2021 Women's Entrepreneurial Leadership fellow by the James Beard Foundation and distinguished as that year's Top Entrepreneur, Natalia believes that a meal isn't just a meal—it's a step towards global well-being and connection.
director of operations: Robert castellon
Robert, a New Jersey native, became fascinated with creativity and collaboration in the hospitality industry at a young age: a passion that was fueled as he toured the world as a musician. Some notable accomplishments during two decades in NYC restaurants were: a leadership role with Danny Meyer’s Union Square Hospitality Group; opening and operating Tim Cushman’s Covina in the Park South Hotel, with Beverage Director Ted Kilpatrick. Both Covina and Roof at Park South were both Nominated for Best American Hotel Bar and International Spirited Awards. Prior to joining Hi Hospitality Group, Robert was a multi-unit operator for Merchants Hospitality Group in the World Financial Center in Downtown Manhattan. Florida is now his permanent home.
CULINARY director: CHEF HART LOWRY
Prior to joining Hi Hospitality Group, Chef Lowry was the culinary director at the iconic Harbor View Hotel located on Martha’s Vineyard. During his tenure, the property was named by Conde Nast as one of New England’s top 10 destination hotels. Before relocating to Martha’s Vineyard, Chef Lowry spent 9 years with the Cushman Concepts group, working alongside James Beard award-winning chef Tim Cushman. There, Lowry was responsible for overseeing operations across nine restaurants including O Ya (New York, Boston, Mexico City), Covina Bar & Café (New York City), Roof at Park South (New York City), Hojoko (Boston), and Bianca (Boston). Lowry has held positions at some of Boston’s most iconic dining venues, including L’Espalier in the Mandarin Oriental Hotel under James Beard award-winning chef Frank McClelland, and the famed Hamersley’s Bistro, under cookbook author and James Beard award-winning chef Gordon Hammersley.
PEOPLE OPERATIONS MANAGER: KRISTEN HOFF
With over a decade of experience in the Hospitality Industry, Kristen is spearheading our People Operations Department with mindfulness as the focal point. Kristen has been a part of HI Hospitality Group since 2018, and has managed both Speaks Clam Bar and Kojo. She has an absolute passion for all things hospitality. Leaning on the knowledge acquired from managing restaurants and creating unforgettable guest experiences, Kristen is bringing the new level of excitement to company’s employee journey. Creating a positive and respectful company culture that allows all team members to become the best versions of themselves is something she strives to do every day.
Beverage director: Silvia Fridegotto
Silvia Fridegotto, a native of Maracay, Venezuela, is our distinguished beverage director. She embodies a fusion of cultural richness and creative flair. Immigrating to the U.S. at age 14, she began her hospitality career at 16, working her way up from bussing tables, serving, bartending to managing and directing beverage services. An alum of Fashion Design from the Fashion Institute of Technology, New York, Silvia brings her artistic vision to the forefront of cocktail creation. With three years at Hi Hospitality Group as head bartender and beverage director, she fosters a culture of creativity and positivity, making her a true embodiment of leadership and innovation in the hospitality industry.