West Orange residents, restaurant leaders earn national recognition

Two West Orange-area residents and restaurant leaders recently were honored with a national recognition of Diamond Club status.

Southwest Orlando resident Randy Cook — a director of operations for Eddie V’s — and Winter Garden resident Kelly Payne — a director of operations for The Capital Grille — have both earned the recognition, which is one of the top honors at parent company Darden Restaurants.

Cook and Payne "were recognized for their commitment to delivering guest experiences at the highest level, while making a difference in the lives of guests and team members, as well as in their community," the release states.

Cook oversees 10 Eddie V’s restaurants in seven states from Florida to Illinois.

“Randy delivers on the luxurious, sophisticated experience our guests know they will receive at our restaurants,” said Falon Farrell, Vice President of Operations. “He has proven to be an effective leader who is able to guide each of his restaurant teams to ensure that every single guest has a night to remember.”

Payne oversees 10 The Capital Grille restaurants in Florida.

“A five-star dining experience requires five-star leadership, and that’s exactly what Kelly delivers,” said Ron Adelman, Senior Vice President of Operations. “Kelly’s dedication to ensuring every restaurant is able to deliver the stellar dining experience guests expect from The Capital Grille is truly inspiring.”