From Chef to GM - Meet Arnold Yescas

“I think of myself more as a Captain than a Coach; a Coach is on the sidelines, I’m on the field."  That was all I needed to hear to know that Arnold was going to do big things in dels as our new General Manager. 

With many years experience as a Chef with del’s and Charcoal Steakhouse and then Founder of much lauded Underground Flavour Group in Downtown Kitchener, he already carries an impressive resume. It’s his first month in his new position and I wanted to sit down and discuss what this next chapter looks like for him..Arnold’s energy is unmistakable, a positive vibe. If you didn’t know better, you might think you are joining him in his own living room, with pizza and Italian wine at the ready. He’s relaxed and sporting a smile that doesn’t give away the 100 things on his to do list today. It’s been only 4 years since we last served a feature menu for him, boasting a whole roasted red snapper and Zabgilone, showcasing his heritage and passion for flavour, it was a farewell feast and dedication to a pillar of our team. That was Chef Arnold of dels in 2018, today, he is General Manager Arnold, a bit older, wiser, but somehow the last 4 years only seemed to add to his positivity and drive. 

 The years in between he spent fostering and growing his passion project “U.F.G” and the soon to air “KW Top Chef” TV Series, growing deeps roots in the community..His 12 years playing soccer adds to his understanding the value of teamwork, and of celebrating success together. 

 “I come from the Back of House as a Chef, and as a team player, I know the value of teamwork and constantly checking in with each other. I want to bring that mentality to our service team now as well. “

The Charcoal Group often feels like a tight knit bunch, if you move from one restaurant to the next, you appreciate the shared ethos and culture of hospitality. However, leading a small team gives Arnold latitude to foster his team in a positive and personal way. 

“We are in a finnicky industry and I think you need to offer something more than just a wage, you need to carry an ideal with you, to create something and build together. Del’s has always been special to me, the atmosphere, and the food, I found there to be lots of love in the air, it’s kinda like a family and I am happy I can come back in this new way, knowing what I know now.“

 Come say hello to our new General Manager, we are so excited to have him back for his next adventure.