About Lado

Always by your side.

The story, the people, and the philosophy behind Lado.

LADO wordmark and arch mark engraved on a sun-warmed terracotta wall

Origin

A family-led tradition, reimagined for the biggest moments.

Lado was created within JJ's Hospitality Group — carrying forward a decade-plus of scratch-made cooking and a reputation for genuine care.

Founder JJ Paredes, a Venezuelan native, has built his career on a simple belief: that bold, honest food has the power to bring people together. His inspiration draws from the vibrant cuisines of Latin America and the Mediterranean — the same flavors that define Lado's palate today.

At the heart of the kitchen is Olivia Lozada, JJ's mother. While JJ brings the passion for flavor, Olivia brings the heart — ensuring every dish carries the same love, care, and integrity she brought to her own family's table. That commitment to wholesome, handcrafted food is the foundation of every gathering Lado creates.

Chef finishing a Lado dish with careful attention to detail
Chef plating a dish in warm evening light

The Meaning

Lado means "side" in Spanish.
The name turns a simple word into a promise.

We stand beside the client before, during, and after every gathering. We anticipate needs, absorb complexity, and make the experience feel effortless — personal enough to care, disciplined enough to execute, refined enough to surpass expectations.

Mission

To create beautifully executed gatherings through exceptional food, thoughtful service, and genuine care.

Vision

To become a defining modern hospitality brand, recognized for turning complex events into seamless, memorable experiences.

What We Carry Into Every Room

Thoughtful

Warm

Exacting

Composed

Generous

Human

Handcrafted

Celebratory

The Lado Journey

What it's like to gather with us.

"Always by your side" isn't just our name — it's how we move through every stage of your gathering, from the first conversation to the last goodbye.

01

The First Hello

You reach out, and we listen. Every inquiry gets a prompt, personal reply and a clear next step.

02

Getting to Know You

Before we talk menus, we talk about you — who's gathering, why it matters, and what the day needs to feel like.

03

A Vision, Made Tangible

We return with a tailored, visually considered proposal — clear on scope, honest on cost, built around your gathering.

04

The Quiet Work

In the weeks that follow, we handle the details before you have to ask — proactive updates, clear deadlines, one team accountable for it all.

05

The Gathering

We arrive early, set up with care, and serve with warmth — so by the time your first guest arrives, all you have to do is be there.

06

Staying Close

A gathering doesn't end when the last plate is cleared. We follow up, welcome your feedback, and stay ready for whatever you're planning next.