My name is Lazaro Montoto, I’m the Founder/CEO of Tropical Grille a restaurant group founded in Greenville, SC in 2010. I’m a husband and a father, of two daughters Madison, Allison and one son Jayden. My wife Shadid and I have been married for going on 20 years.
Q: Tell us about yourself, including a little bit about where you grew up, your education, your family, interests, passions, and career?
I was born and raised in Miami, Florida, and my family immigrated from Cuba in the 1960’s. Some of my passions included boating, and sports. My education was hands on in the restaurant business where I started at age 14 and was fortunate enough to learn from some of the best minds in our industry. I spent most of my career in fine dinning including times as a Executive Chef, server and restaurant manager.
Q: How long have you lived or worked in The Golden Strip?
I have both lived and had businesses in the Golden Strip, my business is currently operating for over 5 years.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I start every single day with prayer and with a workout to get myself ready for any challenges the day might bring.
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in The Golden Strip?
Dennis Shelby, a great friend and mentor who’s love for God and helping other is truly incredible. He’s a man who has dedicated so many years bringing men of all ages together at Brookwood Church’s basketball league. He’s had to deal with so many personalities and always keeps a certain calm and kindness about himself. He shares personal stories of triumph and biblical stories with everyone ever game and he’s just had a huge impact in my life and the life of so many, yet is so humble he probably doesn’t even know it.
Q: What current / former local business makes you the most nostalgic about The Golden Strip?
I Can’t remember the name now but there was a restaurant where the new Popeyes is and it was owned by a Greek family and it was a staple for so many years. I really enjoyed going there and talking to the family. As a restaurant owner, I knew how much love and sacrifice they but into that business and building. If those walls could talk they would have incredible stories of good times and hard times.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about The Golden Strip?
I love Brookwood Church and the Duggar family. God used Pastor Perry along with my aunt as a vital part in my decision to move to Greenville and start a new journey with my family.
Q: With so much growth in our area, there are always new places popping up. Tell us about the a “new to you” place that you recently tried.
Not new, but El Carriel is a family favorite of ours and I would highly recommend to everyone.
Q: What 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME or NEIGHBOR?
Peace, Family, Love.
Q: If you had friends or family visiting you from out of town, what is the one place that you must take them to?
Falls Park, Downtown Greenville.
Q: If you had a free day with no plans, what would you do? Or where can we find you on the weekends?
If I can’t make it to the ocean, which is where I find my peace, I love walking in Downtown Greenville seeing how this amazing city continues to grow.
Q: If you were cast into a major motion picture and had your choice of anyone to be your co-star, who would you choose?
Steve Harvey, would love to pick his brain and just hear him talk about his journey.
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
Visiting Exuma, Bahamas by boat.
Q: What advice would you give to a crowd of people?
No matter how busy life gets, find a little time each day for personal development and health. For me that’s the gym every morning which does even more for my mental health than it does my physical.
Q: Who would you like to see nominated for this project, The Faces of The Golden Strip?
Dennis Shelby. This man deserves all the recognition we can give him…. he’s truly a treasure of the Golden Strip.
