03/11/2026
✨Team Member Spotlight: Evan Pepe ✨
Evan Pepe has been a dedicated member of the FMK Hospitality Group team for more than seven years and currently serves as Manager at Luma Mediterranean Grill. Originally from Ocala, Florida, Evan’s path into hospitality began during his time at The Villages Charter School, where he discovered his passion for the industry. Under the mentorship of Chef John Woods in high school, he realized that hospitality and food service were the career paths he wanted to pursue.
While Evan’s first job in food service was at Culver’s, his true hospitality career began with FMK at Bluefin Bar & Grill. Over the years, he has grown within the company, gaining valuable experience and developing his leadership skills. One of the highlights of his time with FMK has been helping open several restaurant locations as both a server trainer and member of the management team.
Evan chose to work with FMK because of the opportunity to expand his knowledge of the hospitality and food industry. He describes FMK’s culture as uplifting and focused on learning and growth, where team members are encouraged to improve every day.
What Evan enjoys most about his role is the relationships he builds with his team members and guests. He values getting to know the people he works with and learning what motivates them. For Evan, hospitality is about connection—whether it’s greeting new guests and learning about their day or building lasting relationships with regulars who become like family over time.
Outside of work, Evan enjoys cars and spending time with friends and family. Looking ahead, his long-term goal is to continue growing within FMK and eventually become a Director of Operations. Above all, he says he’s grateful for the managers and mentors who have helped guide him throughout his career and for the opportunity to continue learning and growing within the company.
