Purveyors of Amazing: Joe Mora

Chef Joe brings a passion for hospitality to every delectable dish.

Truluck’s Executive Chef Joe Mora didn’t intend for a career in the hospitality industry. But fate had other plans.

“I honestly was looking for a job to help pay for college. But once I started in the food industry, I was hooked,” he says. “I loved the fast pace, the way every day brought a different challenge or experience, and I loved making guests happy, knowing that something I did hopefully created a wonderful memory for them.”

Chef Joe’s first hospitality role was as a line cook for Cracker Barrel, where he worked his way up, learning different aspects of the restaurant business.

“I had a great mentor for a general manager, and he continued to push me and challenge me at every turn. I eventually became a manager and then began running the kitchen,” he says.

After his time at Cracker Barrel, Chef Joe worked at several casual, quick-service restaurants before landing as the culinary manager at Tony Roma’s. For nine years, Chef Joe trained new managers and chefs and was a key part of the team opening new locations. He then moved on to run kitchens elsewhere, including at Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse.

“The companies I worked for were amazing, but I always felt there was a piece missing. Then I met with the leaders here at Truluck’s and realized that the culture here is exactly what I was looking for,” Chef Joe says. “Not only do we serve our guests, but as leaders we also serve our employees. This job gives me the opportunity to impact so many lives on different levels, and I truly enjoy the fact that guests choose us for their celebrations. I love the fact that I once again get to make some amazing memories for people.”

Chef Joe’s favorite way to leave a lasting impression on guests? Through Truluck’s prime ribeye.

“The ribeye is my absolute favorite cut of steak with just the right amount of marble. Being able to combine salt, pepper and a beautiful cut of meat cooked to a perfect temperature is one of my favorite dishes to make,” he says.

For Chef Joe, there’s no better time to work—or dine—at Truluck’s.

“Working at Truluck’s has been great. I’ve been able to work with people who have the same incredible work ethic I do, as well as passion for hospitality,” he says. “I’ve been lucky enough to have an incredible staff that come in everyday and really do a wonderful job and put out amazing food.”

Experience Truluck’s delectable dishes for yourself and make a reservation today. Your table is waiting.