General Manager, Tio Lucho’s, Atlanta
By Toby Bloomberg
Lauren Burling stepped into a perfect storm when she accepted the position of general manager at the acclaimed Poncey-Highland restaurant, Tio Lucho. Chef-owner Arnaldo Castillo had been nominated for a James Beard Award, welcomed a new baby, and lost his GM, all while navigating higher-than-normal staff turnover due to new opportunities. Luckily, Burling’s background working at her family-owned Greek restaurant in Marietta with her grandmother and mother, plus her other experiences in culinary management, had prepared her for the challenge.
“Lauren came in with BOSS LADY energy,” says Castillo, “and within 90 days, our ship went from rough waters to smooth sailing.” She hired and trained new staff while building a positive team-focused culture, and developed new, exciting beverage offerings.
Burling, 37, brings a unique leadership style that combines empathy, clear communication, and a personalized approach to management that acknowledges individual strengths and needs. Rather than imposing immediate changes, she studies the existing culture, identifies pain points, and listens to the staff. The result is a foundation of trust. “I’ve gone into every management position with the idea that I need to learn the restaurant and my staff before I start implementing anything. Everyone has a different way things work, and each restaurant has their own policies, procedures and way of life,” she says.
She approaches team dynamics with a deep respect for each individual. “I ask every new hire, ‘How do you like to be managed?” she explains. This question has been game changing for her in navigating diverse personalities. “Some people need more guidance while others thrive with autonomy,” Burling says. “If my team leaves knowing how to listen better, communicate clearly, and show kindness, I’ve done my job.”
Through her creativity and background in beverages, Burling elevated the beverage program at Tio Lucho by curating a dynamic menu that celebrates Peruvian Pisco while integrating spirits from minority-owned producers. She recently became Pisco-certified and regularly hosts staff education sessions. Through the restaurant’s sister pop-up, Hermanita, Lauren is also exploring more casual, street-food-inspired cocktail offerings.
Burling thrives in the fast-paced culinary environment where she brings her energy to staff camaraderie, beverage innovation, and providing guests with memorable experiences. “I like the fast pace that is restaurants, the high energy, and the fact that when I come in, each day is going to be different,” she says.
“Our staff loves her,” says Castillo. “They enjoy coming to work because of her. I could not do my job without her.”
Read More About the Other 2025 Rising Stars
Thank you to our presenting sponsor, Performance Foodservice, and table sponsors, Society Insurance and Savannah Distributing, for making this event possible:
Presenting Sponsor
Table Sponsors
Savannah Distributing and Society Insurance
