As I sit in a booth at the Beauty Shop, I’m greeted by a friendly face. Devinn Schwarzman has been a server here for years, and she loves every moment. For her, it’s like family, which is a big reason why she stays. Plus, she can’t resist the delicious food.
“I like to arrive a bit early,” she shares. “Karen goes over the specials with us, and we all get to taste them.” This helps her remember the ingredients, so she can share them with customers confidently. When I ask if keeping track of everything is hard, she just shrugs. “I have little tricks to remember,” she says with a smile.
The line between front-of-house and back-of-house is thin here. Devinn knows kitchen creations inside-out. Her excitement is infectious as she talks about the menu. She lights up when she describes the “pan-roasted barramundi with sweet corn and Tennessee pea succotash, citrus garlic coconut broth, Marcona almonds, and warm brown butter.” It’s unique, full of flavors and textures that you won’t find everywhere. “The succotash may be unusual, but it’s amazing!”
“Every table has a little story behind it. So you want to honor that and make it special for them.” — Devinn Schwarzman
Her enthusiasm for the food shines through, but when I ask if she’d like to work in the kitchen, she shakes her head. “Nope,” she says firmly. She loves being a server and takes pride in welcoming guests to the Beauty Shop.
“People come here for big moments—anniversaries, birthdays, or to show visitors the city’s best,” she explains. “Every table has a little story behind it. You want to make it special for them. I enjoy making sure the plates look amazing.”
Devinn’s family-like vibe goes beyond her role. “I do a little bit of everything,” she says. “I can tend bar if needed, and I book shows at Bar DKDC, the music venue next door. I’m always over there doing something.” This spirit of hospitality means anyone can feel welcome at the Beauty Shop, becoming part of their extended family.
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February 2025,Food & Drink,Food Issue,Alex Greene,The Beauty Shop Restaurant