Kansas City’s Aiyana “Nana” Fuiava Honored as Best Restaurant Server at Jazz – A Louisiana Kitchen

Celebrating the Spirit of Cajun Dining in Kansas City

In the heart of Kansas City, a vibrant culinary scene thrives, largely thanks to incredible talents like Aiyana “Nana” Fuiava. Known for her infectious energy and warm personality, Nana has recently been honored with the title of Best Restaurant Server at Jazz – A Louisiana Kitchen. This upbeat eatery, aptly known for its delicious Cajun cuisine, is where the motto “Laissez les bons temps rouler” rings true—let the good times roll!

From California Dreaming to Culinary Queen

Nana’s journey began in sunny California before she moved to Kansas City in 2016. A natural connection with her family drew her to the restaurant scene, with several of her sisters already established in local eateries. “I started as a busser at Chubby’s on Broadway,” she shared, “and in just three months, I had worked my way up through all the positions available.” That early experience set the stage for her to thrive in the bustling world of food service.

Today, you can find Nana balancing her work between two locations: her morning shifts at Waldo Cafe and her bustling evenings at Jazz – A Louisiana Kitchen. Not one to shy away from hard work, she also manages to squeeze in some time at her food truck, UCE Kitchen, which she runs with her brother. Talk about multitasking!

The Secret Sauce of Success

What’s Nana’s magic formula for keeping her customers happy and her teams thriving? “It really comes down to treating everyone like family,” she exclaimed with enthusiasm. This interpersonal approach has not only made her a beloved figure but is also a key reason behind her recent accolade.

When asked about winning the Best Restaurant Server award, Nana appeared pleasantly surprised yet deeply appreciative. “I have a lot of regulars who have been coming to see me for years. When I got nominated, it felt incredible. It just made me think, wow, I’m really doing something right here,” she said, clearly touched by the recognition.

Finding Joy in the Chaos

Of course, serving can be a rollercoaster ride. Nana shared that the toughest part is dealing with less-than-happy customers. “It’s about trying to resolve issues without escalating the situation,” she added. “If they’re upset, it can throw everyone in the restaurant off their game, which is why it’s so important to stay positive, no matter how you’re feeling inside.”

She emphasized how vital her co-workers are to her success, particularly the close-knit “A-team” at Jazz. “We’ve all been here a while—two, three years or more,” she described. “When my team is on each shift, it’s like magic! Everything flows smoothly, like butter.”

Building Unique Connections

Part of Nana’s charm lies in how she connects with customers. “I love getting a little personal with my tables, especially the regulars,” she revealed. She recognizes each table’s unique vibe and pays special attention to creating those memorable experiences guests will cherish long after leaving. “I treat everyone the way I want to be treated when I go out, which keeps them coming back,” she explained.

A Culinary Lifestyle Beyond the Restaurant

After an eventful day, unwinding is crucial for Nana. “Let’s just say I have some well-deserved downtime with my sister talking about the day,” she laughed. “And yeah, I like to smoke.” Relaxation seems essential for long hours in the restaurant industry.

Exciting Future Plans

When it comes to her food truck, UCE Kitchen, Nana shared the excitement over their signature offerings, like teriyaki chicken and delicious garlic chicken. “We emphasize Hawaiian flavors, mixed with a bit of our Samoan culture,” she said, exuding pride. The blend of family recipes and culinary creativity is something that makes their truck truly special.

So if you’re hungry for great Cajun cuisine and a dash of warmth from a dedicated server, make sure to stop by Jazz – A Louisiana Kitchen. With Nana leading the charge, it’s an experience you won’t want to miss!