Samantha Straus

IN THEIR OWN WORDS:

Hospitality is at the heart of who I am, shaped by years of experience in the restaurant industry. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Cal State San Marcos and briefly explored a career in higher education. However, my passion for events and hospitality led me to MIHO, where I’ve been since 2013. I find immense joy in loving what I do and working with such a talented team. I feel incredibly fortunate to be a part of this journey.

FAVORITE EVENT?

A magical winter desert wedding where the focus was on good food, good drinks and good vibes. It is not on social media and we have approximately 2 non-professional pictures from the whole event, yet every moment of the day is clear in my mind. And it was magic.

BEST SKILLS:

Not all the best but definitely all me: I care big. I cry when I am frustrated. I filter very little. I over use the exclamation point.

TYPICAL DAY:

Kids cuddles in the AM. Sports mom things. Floating in the pool. Cooking dinner for my people. Wine. Simple but oh-so good.

WHERE YOU FIND INSPIRATION:

Bon Appetit and Basically for recipes - it’s so approachable. Also, the wine industry: the people, the wines, the stories, everything. I always have a bottle of bubbly in the fridge ‘cause even if it’s Saturday and you’re vacuuming, you deserve it.

WHAT YOU ORDER AT HAPPY HOUR:

All the dips and all the carbs. I am am equal opportunity drinker, so depending on the location: West Coast IPA, a juicy chilled red, dirty vodka martini with blue cheese olives.

RAPID FIRE

Last Thing You Ate: Pink rainbow sprinkles donut.

On Repeat: Van Morrison radio while cooking dinner, always.

Fav. City to Eat In: Nashville

Fav. Restaurant in SD: Herb & Wood, Trust or Tribute