J. Anderson Hurley

Director of Special Events

Describe your path to Grovehouse. How did you end up with the GH family?
I moved to New York the summer before graduate school. On the recommendation of a good friend, I interviewed at Lilia on my 2nd or 3rd day in Brooklyn as a host candidate.

What was your first job in the restaurant industry?
I worked as a server at Green Valley Grill in Greensboro, NC.

What do you love most about the hospitality industry?
I love making people happy with food.

Words of wisdom for those who are new to the restaurant industry? 
Learn to advocate for yourself and your guests.

What's one ingredient you can't live without?
Garlic.

Favorite comfort food/meal/snack?
A fried chicken biscuit always makes me happy.

What's your coffee order?
I drink black iced coffee year around.

What do you listen to in your free time?
I listen to podcasts and audiobooks on the train.

Favorite Instagram account? 
@houseplantparadise @looneytunesbackgrounds.

How do you practice emotional and mental fitness?
Physical fitness and cooking at home.

How do you find your "calm'?
Walking my dog, Rigatoni, and watering my plants.