12/03/2019
So proud of Valdete Topjana Gjergjaj, friend colleague and BNI Mentor...If you have not been to Nana’s Byrek, you need to!
Some exciting things are happening at Crescent Beach BNI! In an effort to celebrate our rapidly growing chapter, and each of its members, we want to encourage and support each and every one in their professional pursuits. Starting this month, our chapter will begin showcasing a new member each month moving forward, calling attention to that individual's profession, and what sets them apart for their respective industries.
Our December showcase presents: Valdete Topjana Gjergjaj of Nana's Byrek in Waterford, Connecticut. Haven't met Val yet? Scroll down to read a little excerpt on her journey thus far, and how she came to be the passionate owner and chef for Nana's Byrek Restaurant.

Val is the mother of Briana and Sebastian, married to husband Fran for 20 years, and was born and raised in Albania. She is proud to have dual Citizenship for Albania and the US. She emigrated to the United States many years ago, worked for 7 years as a teacher assistant for young children, and moved into the restaurant business where she's been polishing her skills for over 17 years.
"Working in restaurants, I have done everything you can imagine from washing dishes, serving, bartending, and cooking. I went from a professional certified trainer, training over 1500 new team members and managers for the region, to managing Corporate.
I successfully led the region for Olive Garden, as second place for guest satisfaction, exceeding top performance goals in taste and waste for our region and ranked in the top 20th for over 875 restaurants owned by Darden Company.
In December 2017, I decided to leave my salary job and all my benefits, to follow my dream and passion of owning my own restaurant, now called Nana’s Byrek.
With the help of my friends, my children and my husband, we opened my restaurant just 30 days after I signed my lease contract.
We are now wrapping up our second year following my passion in business. I’m so thankful and grateful for where I stand !!"
If you haven't tried her food yet, you need to get over there ASAP. And keep an eye out over the next couple weeks as we post more info, news, and testimonials for Val's amazing business.
Regional Sales Manager with Tripleseat
