Aside from Irlanda Montrond’s unmistakable welcoming and engaging presence at Simmons, she carries along an innate strength that isn’t as visible to the human eye. After spending her childhood in Cape Verde, West Africa, Irlanda was among the first in her family to make the voyage to the United States. Her father had been establishing a foundation to support the addition of the rest of their family, but shortly after accompanying Irlanda’s journey across the Atlantic, he sadly passed. Without hesitation, Irlanda immediately stepped into the role of the provider. Despite the vastly new environment, she found employment and directed her income to supporting the transition of her six siblings to the States, following in her footsteps. A selfless and tenacious force, Irlanda is now surrounded by family in the Boston area thanks to her efforts.
Although Irlanda didn’t start working with Bon Appétit until 2016, about 16 years after her relocation to the U.S., she has quickly risen through the ranks. She began as a busser, switched to a dishwasher role, transitioned into a server, assisted services as a checker, became a cook helper, and has since been promoted to a cook. The tongue tying list of her occupational ascent demonstrates Irlanda’s willingness to fill in and learn from wherever she is needed. “I love to cook,” she adds, “and I’m happy to do whatever needs to be done. It’s a team effort.” Irlanda’s comradery and compassion have earned her high praise from coworkers in the kitchen, but interacting with students is much of what she credits for making her job so fulfilling. Coming from West Africa, Irlanda grew up speaking Portuguese, but also knows Spanish as well. On occasion, she loves to identify and converse with students who are native speakers in either language, hoping to give them a small piece of familiarity while being so far away from home.
To best represent her roots, Irlanda will be preparing traditional Portuguese fare for the Simmons crowd. Much of the food she consumed as a kid relied on starches, spices, seafood, and sausages for flavor, and her goal is to provide students with an opportunity to taste dishes that draw from the same inspiration. Experience Irlanda’s passion for food through the comforting product of her cooking, a unique opportunity in Boston which is otherwise lacking in West African culinary representation. And while you’re in line, don’t forget to say hello!