During my graphic design internship with Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants, I gained hands-on experience that bridged both the design and hospitality industries. From updating menus and designing promotional materials to collaborating on brand marketing assets, I had the opportunity to expand both my visual and cross-functional collaboration skills within a fast-paced corporate setting.
One of the most impactful parts of my internship was being tasked with creating an original restaurant concept from the ground up. After weeks of ideation, development, and feedback from my mentors, I created Cavalo do Mar—Portuguese for "horse of the sea"—a modern coastal dining concept inspired by the textures, colors, and flavors of the Mediterranean.
This project culminated in a comprehensive design system that included branded menus, logo design, packaging, signage, merchandise, and more. The visual identity was crafted to communicate not only the aesthetic of Cavalo do Mar, but its mission: to be both an elevated dining experience anda. community-oriented creative event space in Chicago's Fulton Market District.
