IT Alumni Elvaro Jimenez works as an Application Systems Programmer for the FL Department of Highway Safety & Motor Vehicles. By night he slings pizza at Isabella’s Pizzeria as a co-owner of Gaines Street’s newest pizza joint.

In 2011, Jimenez graduated from the Information Technology program and has been working with the Dept. of Highway Safety & Motor Vehicles ever since. Rising through the ranks from Senior Consumer Analyst to Senior Analyst to his current position as Application Systems Programmer II, and says he loves his “day job”.

Isabella’s is a joint venture between Jimenez and his good friend Mikel Jaramillo. The two decided to mix Jimenez’s leadership and communication skills with Mikel’s culinary background to open the restaurant. Mikel has a degree on Culinary Arts and completed training from “Associazione Pizzaiuoli Napoletany” in New York as a Certified Neapolitan Style Pizza Maker, ensuring Isabella’s authenticity.

“This opportunity gives me a chance to separate from my computer and connect with real people on a daily basis, I play computer programming by day and business owner by night” Jimenez shared.

The menu boasts dozens of pizzas, calzones, paninis, insalata and antipasti. Isabella’s makes their own mozzarella and butter in house and offers authentic, fresh ingredients.

Jimenez serves as Isabella’s General Manager and COO. Any technology issue falls on his plate, as well as keeping restaurant operations running smooth. He oversees assistant managers, payroll and staffing.

Isabella’s is open for business at 799 W Gaines Street, Unit 101. Tentative hours are M-W 11:30am to 10pm, T-S 11:30am-12am and Sunday 5pm-10pm