Teran Melton - Design Specialist

How long have you been with Rapids?
Since January 2019—and I am excited to be aboard!

What was your favorite project? Why?
In my previous role as a Store Operations Engineer with Caribou Coffee and Einstein Bagels, I partnered with the design team on all new stores and remodel projects. A highlight, though, was the opportunity to take the lead on the service line design and equipment selection for a Caribou Coffee in downtown Minneapolis. As a small, skyway location, it needed to be optimized for speed of service, spatial efficiency, labor efficiency, and employee and guest experience. I really enjoyed working outside of a prototypical Caribou design, and the ever-important challenge of driving profitability through a functional and efficient design.

Name some of your other previous projects.
Before my years in the foodservice industry, I’ve also worked on interior design projects, both residential and retail, and had a lot of fun creating several full-room murals in children’s rooms.

What do you like to do on a Sunday afternoon?
My husband, daughter and I often head to a local brewery for some quality time and a couple craft beers. With so many in the area, we make a point to go to checkout new and different ones as much as possible.

If we gave you next week off, what would you do with your time?
Travel, no doubt! Also, naps (I do have a toddler, after all)!

What was your last “oh my god this is perfect” meal?
I have the privilege of living in the Twin Cities, which is home to so many great eateries, so it can be hard to pick a “best.” A definite favorite, though, is the sunrise burger with fries and a cold beer from Northbound in South Minneapolis, especially when it’s nice enough to enjoy it all on the patio.

What is your best dish?
Pumpkin bars, although I have to admit that they are my grandmother’s recipe.