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ABOUT US

The fourth unique concept of Good Salt Restaurant Group, The Monroe boasts 4,000 sq feet of dining and entertainment space in Creative Village, Downtown Orlando. Our menu serves nostalgic, childhood favorites in the airy, midcentury space with a main dining room, bar, lounge/study, and daytime coffee bar. 

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We seek to capture the spirit of Orlando's rich history in our decor, menu, and community involvement as we share this new restaurant with our guests in the heart of Creative Village.  The Monroe is inspired by Dr. William "Monroe" Wells and his hospitable spirit as a civil rights leader and iconic figure in Orlando's history.  We are proud supporters of the Wells' Built Museum in the historic Parramore neighborhood, which provides an insightful and inspiring look into Orlando's African American heritage and Dr. Wells' legacy.  You can read more about Dr. Wells HERE.

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Whether you join us for a cocktail, coffee or chef's dinner, we hope to share the best of Orlando's hospitality with you. 

OUR TEAM

We're proud to employ some of the best hospitality professionals that Orlando has to offer.

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Executive Chef  |  Nikk Burton

Raised in Queens, NY, Executive Chef Nikk Burton has been cooking with a passion since he was in middle school. In 2012 he moved to Orlando to begin a career at Walt Disney World. His tenure there included time at California Grill and as Head Chef at the Boardwalk Resort. Orlando’s blossoming food scene has drawn Chef Nikk to join the downtown culinary community and we are excited to have him at the helm of The Monroe as Executive Chef! His fun yet familiar food flavors are a natural fit for The Monroe.

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General Manager | Mike Pestana

An Orlando native, Mike Pestana was raised in the hospitality business, with his father a chef and his mother a catering director. Following in their footsteps, he has worked in the food and beverage industry since graduating from UCF’s Rosen College of Hospitality Management.  His experience in the industry grew as he oversaw several bars, restaurants, and banquet operations at Hyatt Hotels both here in Orlando, and the Forbes 5 Star Park Hyatt New York.  His return to Florida included time in Delray Beach before joining The Monroe team as General Manager.  When not at work, you can find Mike exploring Orlando’s plethora of chef-driven menus and expanding cocktail scene.​

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Assistant General Manager | Molly Ward 

Molly is the creative genius behind our coffee and tea program at Monroe, and she’s always working on a new, tasty (and hopefully caffeinated) beverage. Molly moved to Orlando to pursue her double bachelors in Nursing and Clinical Psychology. She’s been working in coffee shops around town since, and joined our team for our grand opening. Her favorite beverage of choice is Oolong tea, and she's always willing to dive into a conversation about beverage, be it coffee, tea or mocktails. When not at work, you can find her free diving at the springs.

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Service Manager | Dani Tin 

Born and raised in South Florida, Dani moved to Orlando to pursue her passion for helping others, earning her bachelor’s degrees in both Speech and Occupational Therapy. Her dream was to work with children, but life had a way of steering her toward another love. In 2009, while still in college, she joined the Good Salt Group and began working at Seito Sushi in Baldwin Park. It was there that she met her now husband and discovered her passion for the culinary and hospitality industry. Her experience not only sparked a love for food but also ignited her drive to make a meaningful impact on Orlando’s vibrant food scene. She draws inspiration and strength from her husband, her family, and their beloved dog, Troy. With a heart for people and a smile that lights up the room, she is determined to leave a lasting mark on Orlando’s culinary world. 

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