Today we’d like to introduce you to Elda Rata.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My path to Acquario reflects much of my life’s journey intentional, relationship-driven, and rooted in service. I come from a legal background and spent years building a career while managing complex responsibilities, which taught me discipline, problem-solving, and leadership.
In 2019, I met my husband, Nino, whose dream was always to return to Keller and open a high-quality Italian restaurant in Keller. When we moved here in 2023, Acquario became the natural intersection of our skills and values. Nino brought deep culinary experience, investment and vision, our partner Chef Fredi Plaku brought his culinary expertize and artistry and I brought operational structure, strategy, and community engagement.
As part of Acquario’s management, I focus on operations, compliance, branding, community relationships, and long-term planning. More than anything, Acquario is about hospitality creating a place where people feel taken care of. That philosophy mirrors how I’ve approached every step of my career and life
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Like any business worth building, it hasn’t been a completely smooth road and I don’t think it should be. The biggest challenges were learning a new market, navigating regulations, and balancing the intensity of opening and running a restaurant while also managing my first job in corporate law and family responsibilities. There were moments of pressure, especially in the early stages, but each challenge forced us to become more disciplined and intentional. Those experiences strengthened both the business and our leadership and I am now looking to open another one.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Besides Acquario Italian Restaurant role, My work centers on law, business, and advocacy. I support corporate and compliance matters through United Corporate Services, maintain a private immigration-advocacy project based activity, and remain active in volunteer work supporting women in need. I’ve also contributed to legal research projects with Columbia University focused on cross-border development. I am proud of all these and what I’m most proud of is the culture we’ve built at Acquario. We created a place where hospitality is intentional where guests feel genuinely cared for and where our team feels supported. Watching people choose Acquario for their celebrations, milestones, and everyday moments tells me we’re doing something meaningful.
Structure and genuine hospitality are at the core of both Acquario and how I show up as a leader. I believe systems exist to support people, not overshadow them. My role in management is making sure the structure is solid so the human side warmth, care, and connection can flourish.
What were you like growing up?
I grew up with a strong sense of independence and compassion. I played piano and violin, competed in volleyball, and was always close to teachers and family. Education and personal responsibility were central in my family, and being part of a large, close-knit family taught me the importance of family, community and connection.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.acquariorestaurant.com
- Instagram: Acquario_restaurant
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/17946dCL6U/
Image Credits
Studio Dritë by Anisa Canaku instagram: @anisauior
