Bartaco has promoted SVP of Operations Anthony Valletta to president of the 22-unit sit-down chain.
Valletta has only been with Bartaco since September, but has apparently made an impression on executives during his short tenure.
"We are thrilled to have Anthony step into the role of president at bartaco," said CEO and co-founder Scott Lawton in a statement. "He is a proven leader who has demonstrated his ability to enact positive change, and shares our ideals of constant improvement and putting our guests first at all times."
As president, Valletta will focus on helping the chain grow as well as deepening its ties to local communities, including by creating jobs with growth opportunities.
Anthony Valletta / Photograph courtesy of Bartaco
Prior to joining the Arlington, Va.-based chain, Valletta spent nearly four years in COO roles at chicken concept Birdcall and Mina Group. Before that, he was director of operations at Del Frisco's Restaurant Group and a managing partner for Tavolino Italian Gourmet. He began his restaurant career in 2002 as a managing partner at Darden Restaurants.
"I'm grateful for the opportunity to lead bartaco in an expanded capacity and partner with our distinguished and innovative executive team," he said in a statement, adding that he has admired the chain for years. "This is truly the greatest honor I have achieved in my career, not only because of the brand stature, but to have a team of leaders that are the best in the industry behind me."
Founded in 2010, Bartaco is known for its upscale takes on global street food served in a laid-back, rustic atmosphere.
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