In the culinary scene, Chef Diego Mota and Taylor Amara have created a unique space with their restaurant, Leonessa. Their combined expertise and passion for hospitality have established a dining experience that reflects their rich backgrounds and shared vision. Their journey from culinary and hospitality students to successful restaurant owners showcases their dedication to the craft and their commitment to creating memorable experiences for their guests.
The Culinary Rise of Chef Diego Mota
Chef Diego Mota’s culinary journey began in his youth, where an early passion for cooking set him on a path that would eventually lead to Leonessa. After attending Newbury College in Brookline, Massachusetts, for Culinary Arts, Diego’s talent and dedication quickly became evident as he embraced the foundations of his craft. His education provided him with the technical skills necessary to excel in high-end cuisine, but it was his natural affinity for flavors and presentation that truly set him apart from his peers.
Foundations of Excellence: Mentorship at Towne Stove & Spirits
Upon graduating, Diego’s career took a significant leap forward when he joined the opening team at Towne Stove & Spirits in Boston’s Back Bay. Working under the guidance of legendary Chef Lydia Shire and her culinary right-hand Mario Capone, Diego was immersed in an environment of excellence and innovation. This formative experience exposed him to the intricacies of opening and operating a high-profile restaurant, lessons that would prove invaluable later in his career. The mentorship he received during this time helped shape his approach to kitchen management and menu development, influencing the chef he would become.
Crafting His Signature Style at Bancroft Chophouse
In 2014, Diego’s professional journey continued as he followed Chef Mario Capone to open Bancroft Chophouse in Burlington, Massachusetts. It was under Capone’s guidance that Diego’s culinary inspiration truly flourished, allowing him to develop his own distinctive style while mastering the art of fine dining. By 2018, his growing reputation and skill set earned him the position of Executive Chef at The Federal Restaurant in Waltham, Massachusetts. Working alongside industry veterans Richard Brackett and David Alphonse, Diego further refined his craft and business acumen. These experiences collectively prepared him for his ultimate goal: opening Leonessa, where he now shares his passion and expertise with every guest who walks through the door.
Taylor Amara’s journey in hospitality began on the shores of Cape Cod in Chatham, Massachusetts, where she grew up involved in her family’s restaurant business. This early exposure to the hospitality industry ignited a passion that would define her career path. Surrounded by the daily operations of a busy restaurant, Taylor developed an intuitive understanding of guest satisfaction and operational excellence from a young age. These foundational experiences instilled in her the values of hard work, attention to detail, and genuine hospitality that continue to guide her professional approach.
A Dream Realized: Leonessa
Pursuing her passion formally, Taylor attended Johnson & Wales University in Providence, Rhode Island, where she honed her knowledge of food and beverage management. After completing her education, she moved to Boston to advance her career at the prestigious Seaport Hotel & World Trade Center. Taylor’s natural talent and dedication quickly became apparent as she rose through the ranks under the mentorship of Food and Beverage Director William Hacking, eventually becoming Director of Outlets. This role allowed her to develop strong management skills, from staff development to financial oversight, preparing her for the challenges of restaurant ownership.
It was during her time in Boston that Taylor met Diego, creating both a personal and professional partnership that would eventually lead to Leonessa. Their complementary skills—Diego’s culinary expertise and Taylor’s front-of-house management abilities—formed the ideal foundation for their joint venture. Now as Owner & General Manager of Leonessa, Taylor brings her extensive experience and warm hospitality style to create an inviting atmosphere for all guests. Her approach combines professionalism with genuine care, ensuring that the dining experience at Leonessa extends beyond excellent food to encompass truly memorable service.
