Venecia Willis, known as Chef V, leads culinary for Velvet Taco, bringing more than 15 years of experience and a clear point of view on what the brand stands for. At the center of her approach is a simple idea: don’t settle for ordinary. Across more than 50-plus locations, she works closely with teams to keep pushing what a taco can be, pulling in global flavors, thoughtful techniques and high-quality ingredients. That might mean fresh Thai basil flown in weekly, a wide range of peppers used in different ways across the menu, or slow-roasted meats done right. It’s also reflected in Velvet Taco’s Weekly Taco Feature, where new ideas show up every week and give guests a reason to come back. Venecia stays connected to where food is going, not just where it’s been. She keeps a close eye on emerging trends and ingredients, making sure the menu evolves in a way that feels both current and true to the brand. She got her start at The Illinois Institute of Art in Chicago and built her career through roles at Roti Modern Mediterranean and Protein Bar & Kitchen. At Roti, she moved quickly from an hourly role into leadership, setting the tone for the kind of operator and leader she’s become. In 2020, she was recognized by QSR Magazine as a “Young Leader to Watch.” Joining Velvet Taco in 2021 felt like a natural fit. She had long been drawn to the energy of the brand and its open kitchen environment and saw an opportunity to pair her creativity with a concept built on individuality. Today, she continues to shape the menu and the team behind it, helping drive the brand forward through consistent execution and a willingness to keep evolving.