What is Ling & Louie's Hospitality?
At Ling & Louie's Restaurants, we have a solution-based mindset, pay meticulous attention to detail, and forge personalized relationships to make people smile and create exceptional experiences for all.
Our Core Values
We are ENGAGING & ENERGETIC
We come to work each day filled with positive energy, ready to create a fun environment and make raving fans.
We are PASSIONATE
We love creating exceptional experiences, paying attention to the details that make the difference, and exceeding expectations.
We are INNOVATIVE & DYNAMIC
We embrace the energy created from new ideas while following the philosophy of Kaizen and being open to constructive feedback.
We are ONE TEAM UNDER ONE ROOF
We treat each other with respect by being genuine and honest. We take care of each other so we can better take care of our guests.
We are part of the COMMUNITY
We are a safe haven for our guests, adding value to our neighborhoods and supporting local non-profit organizations.
Our Senior Leadership
E. John Banquil, Jr. - President and CEO
E. John Banquil, Jr. - President and CEO
E. John Banquil, Jr. - President and CEO
Born in Honolulu, HI, John spent time in California and Idaho before settling in sunny Scottsdale, AZ.
John began working in restaurants as a teenager and quickly grew infatuated with the industry, becoming a manager at the age of 19. Now, with a long history in restaurant leadership and a passion to teach and develop those around him, Jo
Born in Honolulu, HI, John spent time in California and Idaho before settling in sunny Scottsdale, AZ.
John began working in restaurants as a teenager and quickly grew infatuated with the industry, becoming a manager at the age of 19. Now, with a long history in restaurant leadership and a passion to teach and develop those around him, John focuses on development and brand strategy for Ling & Louie's Restaurants.
Ever the innovator, John has taken the company from one concept to three, while growing the company's presence, revenue, and profitability. With his eyes now set on growth, he looks to make Ling & Louie's Restaurants the premier name in Asian dining across the country.
Outside of the company, John enjoys quality time with his wife, Miriam, and two sons, Tristen and Elijah.
Greg Smith - Corporate Executive Chef
E. John Banquil, Jr. - President and CEO
E. John Banquil, Jr. - President and CEO
Greg was born in Flagstaff, Arizona and grew up on the Navajo Hopi Reservation in northern Arizona.
Starting his restaurant career in 1993, Greg quickly worked his way into a Kitchen Manager position within a year. His career took off after that, with time at Romano's Macaroni Grill and Thaifoon Taste of Asia, before settling in at Li
Greg was born in Flagstaff, Arizona and grew up on the Navajo Hopi Reservation in northern Arizona.
Starting his restaurant career in 1993, Greg quickly worked his way into a Kitchen Manager position within a year. His career took off after that, with time at Romano's Macaroni Grill and Thaifoon Taste of Asia, before settling in at Ling & Louie's Asian Bar and Grill in 2008.
As the inventive mind behind the innovative cuisine at Ling & Louie's Restaurants, Greg has helped mentor dozens of industry leaders and many more teammates over the years. His insistence on tearing down the "wall" between the front of the house and back of the house has been a driving force in the company's culture and core values.
When Greg is not donning his chef coat, he enjoys riding his Harley-Davidson with his fiancé, Lisa.
Joseph Rizzo - Regional General Manager
E. John Banquil, Jr. - President and CEO
Joseph Rizzo - Regional General Manager
Born and raised in vibrant Brooklyn, NY, Joe's journey in hospitality commenced after proudly serving in the United States Marine Corps. Now, as a Regional General Manager at Ling & Louies Restaurants since 2020, he is passionate about driving growth and nurturing a dynamic team.
With a solid track record in transforming operations, he i
Born and raised in vibrant Brooklyn, NY, Joe's journey in hospitality commenced after proudly serving in the United States Marine Corps. Now, as a Regional General Manager at Ling & Louies Restaurants since 2020, he is passionate about driving growth and nurturing a dynamic team.
With a solid track record in transforming operations, he is committed to elevating profitability and reducing turnover. His approach involves proactive coaching and cross-training, ensuring a culture of efficiency and growth.
Beyond his professional pursuits, Joe cherishes family time with his beautiful wife Melissa and their three adored children - Colten, Chloe, and Tyler.