In this episode of Table 20, Gustavo Alvarez sits down with Vincenzo “Vinny” Parise, a chef whose story captures the essence of passion, discipline, and rediscovery.

From his early days in Italy, where food was a sanctuary of family and celebration, to the intensity of Michelin-starred kitchens across Europe, Vinny’s career has been driven by an unrelenting pursuit of excellence. His journey through culinary temples like Martín Berasategui and Eleven Madison Park reveals a deep respect for craft and the quiet strength behind mastery.

Now based in Sydney, Vinny reflects on how his understanding of success has evolved — from chasing perfection to finding balance, presence, and intention. His story reminds us that inspiration often hides in simplicity, and that true excellence begins with gratitude and curiosity.

Pull up a chair and enjoy the conversation.

Thank you so much for listening. If you enjoyed it, please support us below :)

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Disclaimer
The views, opinions, and experiences expressed in Table 20 are solely those of the speakers and do not represent the official views of Tropico Collective or its partners. References to specific individuals, companies, or experiences are based on personal recollections and are not independently verified. All content is shared for informational and entertainment purposes only. Neither Tropico Collective nor the host accepts responsibility for any statements made or their interpretation by listeners.

In this episode of Table 20, Gustavo Alvarez sits down with his friend and longtime mentor, Brice Le — a hospitality leader whose story embodies adaptability, identity, and belonging.

Brice’s two-decade journey has taken him from breaking up bar fights in France to serving drinks at Disney hotels, and eventually to leading teams in Sydney. Along the way, he’s balanced the richness of his Vietnamese, Italian, and French roots while learning what it means to build a home in a foreign land.

Through moments of humour, honesty, and reflection, Brice reminds us that belonging isn’t about choosing one world over another — it’s about carrying all of them within you.

Pull up a chair and enjoy the conversation.

Thank you so much for listening. If you enjoyed it, please support us below :)

https://linktr.ee/tropicoco

---------------------------------
Disclaimer
The views, opinions, and experiences expressed in Table 20 are solely those of the speakers and do not represent the official views of Tropico Collective or its partners. References to specific individuals, companies, or experiences are based on personal recollections and are not independently verified. All content is shared for informational and entertainment purposes only. Neither Tropico Collective nor the host accepts responsibility for any statements made or their interpretation by listeners.

In this episode of Table 20, Gustavo Alvarez sits down with Devi Christina, a sharp, witty, and passionate hospitality professional whose journey is as dynamic as it is heartfelt.

From mixing cocktails behind busy bar counters to managing beloved local venues and stepping into the precision of Sydney’s fine dining scene, Devi’s career reflects a relentless drive to grow and excel. Yet today, her definition of excellence has evolved — it’s found in connection, balance, and presence. Whether welcoming guests at check-in, greeting familiar faces at lunch, or sharing time with her son, Devi continues to embody hospitality in its truest form.

Join Gustavo and Devi for a conversation about passion, purpose, and how our pursuit of success transforms as life unfolds.

Thank you so much for listening. If you enjoyed it, please support us below :)

https://linktr.ee/tropicoco

---------------------------------
Disclaimer
The views, opinions, and experiences expressed in Table 20 are solely those of the speakers and do not represent the official views of Tropico Collective or its partners. References to specific individuals, companies, or experiences are based on personal recollections and are not independently verified. All content is shared for informational and entertainment purposes only. Neither Tropico Collective nor the host accepts responsibility for any statements made or their interpretation by listeners.

In this episode of Table 20, Gustavo Alvarez welcomes Antonia McHugh, a hospitality professional whose kindness, curiosity, and passion redefine what it means to serve and connect.

From balancing a science degree with restaurant work to discovering a deep love for food and culture, Antonia’s journey reminds us that purpose often emerges in unexpected places. Through stories of cooking Easter meals with her mother and foraging for wild herbs in Iceland, she shares how food has become a language of care, creativity, and discovery.

Join us for a heartfelt conversation about curiosity, culture, and the art of being present — both at the table and in life.

Thank you so much for listening. If you enjoyed it, please support us below :)

https://linktr.ee/tropicoco

---------------------------------
Disclaimer
The views, opinions, and experiences expressed in Table 20 are solely those of the speakers and do not represent the official views of Tropico Collective or its partners. References to specific individuals, companies, or experiences are based on personal recollections and are not independently verified. All content is shared for informational and entertainment purposes only. Neither Tropico Collective nor the host accepts responsibility for any statements made or their interpretation by listeners.

In this episode of Table 20, we sit down with Jean-Christoph “JC” Le Bian, a French chef whose story bridges the rustic farmlands of Brittany and the refined kitchens of Australia.

Rooted in a childhood surrounded by fresh produce and family traditions, JC’s journey takes us from harvesting vegetables with his parents to enduring the intensity of French culinary schools and high-end restaurants. Along the way, he shares how curiosity, humility, and an openness to other cultures shaped both his cooking and his character.

Together, Gustavo and JC explore the meaning of craft, resilience, and the pursuit of growth — reminding us that behind every plate, there’s a story of learning, adaptation, and purpose.

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Thank you so much for listening. If you enjoyed it, please support us below :)

https://linktr.ee/tropicoco

---------------------------------
Disclaimer
The views, opinions, and experiences expressed in Table 20 are solely those of the speakers and do not represent the official views of Tropico Collective or its partners. References to specific individuals, companies, or experiences are based on personal recollections and are not independently verified. All content is shared for informational and entertainment purposes only. Neither Tropico Collective nor the host accepts responsibility for any statements made or their interpretation by listeners.