Brenda Pis one of our most veteran Elites in Broward-Palm Beach. Originally part of the Yelp Miami Elite Squad, she was a pioneer of Yelp BPB when it was launched in 2013. While Yelp is known for its more than 100 million reviews, it’s also known to have droolworthy photos.
Brenda is one of the queens of food porn. Always equipped with the latest gadget to light up her masterpieces, while simultaneously helping Yelpers make decisions on what to eat everyday. She won Photographer of the Year at back-to-back Yelpies in2013and2014, and has been nominated for the category every single year!
A picture is worth 1,000 words, but check out a few words from Brenda in this edition of Meet The Elite.
Why did you start yelping?
Confession: After lurking for a little over a year, I wanted to tell the world about a horrible dining experience I had and took the plunge (hangs head in shame). That said, I didn’t want my profile to have only that one negative review. I quickly filled it with reviews of some my favorite locations and a Yelper was born.
What does it mean to be Yelp Elite to you?
It means I lead by example, educate newbies about the site and how to make it work best for them, and engage with the South Florida community as much as I can.
What are some tips on taking excellent food photos?
Ha! I can’t give my secrets away. Ok, maybe a few tips. Whenever possible, shoot with as much natural light or an external light source (stay away from using the built-in flash). Also, don’t be afraid to get up close and personal. I want to drool over the dish, not have to zoom in to find out what it is. Finally, never, ever, take photos of dirty plates or food someone already bit into. Ew.
Why is it “Sweet to be Elite”?
The BPB Elite squad is quite the motley crew, led my the most passionate community manager I could’ve ever asked for (and I’m not just saying that). I’ve met the most interesting people these last seven years. In addition, I love learning about and supporting the businesses in our area.
What’s your favorite Elite Event you’ve attended?
Tough question. It has to be a tie betweenYelp’s Dead Ringer Halloween Party @ PangaeaorYelp’s Hoedown @ Round Up. No surprise both of these events involved a dance-till-ya-drop criteria. And dance I did. The energy at both was unreal!
What are the Top 3 restaurants in Broward-Palm Beach you recommend?
Casa D’ Angelo: Using the best ingredients, following what’s in season, and sharing family recipes means Chef Angelo offers the best Italian food at this oldie but goodie. Service is taken very seriously at this beautiful restaurant. Don’t be fooled by the strip mall location. Casa D’ is the real deal! Pro tip: Forget the menu and instead order off the endless list of specials.
Steak 954: So much to love about this place! More specifically: The 954 Cheesesteak, Truffle Mac & Cheese, Tater Tots, Miso Glazed Black Cod, and the Freshly Baked Cookies To Go. Trust me on this one!
Kuro: Sure, it’s a gorgeous restaurant and the cocktails rock, but I just can’t get enough of the Wagyu Tacos, Seared Hamachi, and endless Nigiri. I. Dream. Of. Kuro. The end.
About the Yelp Elite Squad: The Yelp Elite Squad is our way of recognizing people who are active in the Yelp community – people who are role models both on and off the site. Elite-worthiness is based on a number of things, including well-written reviews, high quality tips, a detailed personal profile, an active voting and complimenting record, and a history of playing well with others. Elites must use their real name on their account, have a real (and clear!) profile photo, and be of legal drinking age in their country. You can read more, and even nominate yourself atyelp.com/elite
