We had the good fortune of connecting with Melissa Montanez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Melissa, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I was born in Chicago, went to high school in Bangkok, lived in San Francisco for 15 years and San Diego for the last 19. My dad is Thai and my mom is French American. I am very fortunate to be multi-ethnic and to have lived in so many diverse ‘foodie’ cities. I believe it was the years I lived in Thailand that opened my senses to the importance of delicious fresh food. Shopping in the open markets daily, prepping vegetables, seafood and meat, using herbs spices and curries, eating with family and friends, and talking about your next meal while dining are all aspects of life there! I experienced the same thing visiting France several times! I appreciate cultures that spend extra time and care regarding food.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
As a caterer, I try to incorporate the true meaning of ‘cater’ by customizing and personalizing each event. I love getting to know each client and hearing about their preferences and ideas before I offer my own. It has been a great journey, although I struggled during the beginning of the pandemic. I wasn’t sure what direction to go in, but I trusted the universe and acquired an opportunity to do home chef work. I learned during those trying times to trust the process and to remain confident in my abilities. I chose the name Floating Lotus In honor of the lotus flower, which emerges from the dark mud and blossoms into a miraculous beauty!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If I had a friend visiting from out of town I would love to cook homemade Thai food and hopefully grill and cook some meals together. I’d probably invite friends and family because the more the merrier! Id definitely tour Coronado and have drinks at the Hotel Del and take a nice walk on the beach. we’d check out The Shouthouse dueling piano bar in the historic Gaslamp district, hike Iron Mountain in Ramona, discover La Jolla cove, and watch the sunset in DelMar. There’s also ramen at RakiRaki, and the best Italian food at Gregorio’s in Carlsbad.
For the big splurge and fine dining experience, I’d take them to either Herb&Wood or Avant at the RB Inn.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would love to dedicate my shout out to my dad. He worked very hard to make sure I had a better life than he did. He was loved by everyone who met him and he treated them with such respect. I have countless memories of going to the market, prepping meals, and laughing during dinner with him. He taught me to always try things at least once and to appreciate the simple things in life. Eat, drink and be merry!

Website: Www.floatinglotuscatering.com

Instagram: @floatinglotus.catering

Facebook: Floatinglotuscatering

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