Today we’d like to introduce you to Madalyn Botello.
Hi Madalyn, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I grew up in the restaurant business–my grandfather started a chain of restaurants called The Velvet Turtles and sold those restaurants to open his last restaurant, Wally’s Desert Turtle, which is currently ran by myself and my father, Michael Botello. While growing up in the business, I knew that I wanted to study hospitality, so I attended Cornell University’s Hotel School and graduated in 2017 with my Bachelor of Science in Hospitality. and Business. Upon graduating, I moved to Washington D.C and furthered my education with The Four Seasons Management in Training Program. After completing the program, I went on to work for The Four Seasons as a Hotel Assistant Manager for about four years.
I thought my career would continue with The Four Seasons, but due to the pandemic I moved back home to the Coachella Valley and discovered that my true purpose is to continue my grandfather’s legacy with Wally’s Desert Turtle.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
Yes and no. I think obstacles help to shape you on your journey and I’ve definitely experienced my fair-share of obstacles, like anyone else. For example, I’m a young professional woman in my mid-twenties fulfilling the role of General Manager at my restaurant. This entails managing people that have more experience in the restaurant industry and I often find myself having to direct them but simultaneously remembering to listen and learn from those who have come before me.
…and working with family is obviously super rewarding, but definitely can come with its own set of challenges!
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Wally’s Desert Turtle has been in the desert for 43 years and counting. We serve modern Californian cuisine with a French influence. We are a farm-to-table restaurant serving only the highest quality, organic ingredients. We specialize in an old-style of service where your water glass is never empty and the team of waiters works in unison to provide the highest quality service. While dining with us, you are surrounded by original Steven Chase design which provides a warm and elegant ambiance of beveled mirrored ceilings, sparkling chandeliers, ancient Peruvian artifacts, and hand-painted murals. Experiencing Wally’s is like going back to the Old-Hollywood era.
We offer everything from nightly dining, live music, private space for special events, and an up and coming outdoor lounge and patio.
I believe what sets us apart is our three-generational family history and our staff–a majority of which have been with us for over two decades.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
Our business would be nothing without our loyal staff, who treats this restaurant as if it was their own. They are so dedicated and work so hard to provide the service that we promise.
I also cannot go without mentioning my grandfather, Wally Botello, who started this legacy over 40 years ago and my amazing parents who kept his dream alive.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: http://www.wallysdesertturtle.com/
- Instagram: @wallysdesertturtle
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wallysturtle
