Tag Archives: Franchesca Nor

by Steven Doyle

Franchesca Nor is this intelligent and vibrant restaurateur who owns Dive Coastal Cuisine located in Snider Plaza, just across from SMU in University Park. As the chef-owner she is backed up with plenty of industry knowledge as a  summa cum laude graduate from Johnson and Wales. While in school she interned for Chef Allen Susser, owner of Aventura and the innovator of New World Cuisine and founder of the Mango Gang. After graduation she as heavily involved in all aspects of hospitality including events, public relations, concierge work, catering and partnered with Ernesto Arguello to start a  boutique hotel in the heart of South Beach called STAY at Lincoln.

Nor eventually moved to Dallas to be near her sister. “My sister reminded me that we lived next to chef Nick Badovinus and he was opening a new restaurant, Neighborhood Services.  I went and spoke with Nick and told him I could do pretty much anything – working in the kitchen, run the front of the house,” said Nor. “No.  He said I would be good as wait staff.  I thought I could be better used elsewhere, but agreed.  It was perfect.  I was able to meet all the clientele I have today.  I learned how restaurants work in Dallas.  I saw what people were eating”.   Continue reading →