ABOUT FIVE SENSES
At Five Senses Hospitality Group, we are more than just a collection of restaurants; we are the embodiment of a vision that reimagines dining as a symphony for the senses.
Led by a diverse team of culinary professionals, our journey is marked by a relentless commitment to excellence in every aspect of hospitality. From business strategy to guest service, training programs to food and beverage management, we orchestrate experiences that captivate all five senses in harmonious unity.
As we journey forward, the future holds endless possibilities. Five Senses Hospitality Group remains steadfast in its pursuit of elevating the dining experience. Innovation will be our compass as we continue to compose experiences that transcend the ordinary. At Five Senses Hospitality Group, the senses converge and every moment is a celebration of life’s flavors.
owner
Jay Howell
In the heart of rural Louisiana, where dirt roads stretch like ribbons through the delta farmland, a story of ambition, diligence, and success began to unfold. It’s a narrative that traces the journey of an individual who, from the humble beginnings on a family farm, would rise to become a prominent figure in the realms of healthcare, real estate, and the culinary world. This is the story of a visionary who transformed the landscape of Northeast Louisiana, a tale that resonates with the spirit of American entrepreneurship and innovation.
Our protagonist’s early years were steeped in the values that would define his path: hard work, perseverance, and a keen sense of community. Excelling both academically and athletically, he became a beacon of potential in his small-town environment. His prowess on the sports field was matched by his achievements in the classroom, leading him to Louisiana Tech University, where he not only continued to shine in baseball, but also laid the groundwork for his future academic and professional endeavors.
The next chapter took him to LSU’s esteemed dental school, where his passion for helping others and his scientific acumen found a perfect match. These years were formative, instilling in him a deep understanding of the importance of service, excellence, and leadership. Upon completing his dental education, he didn’t just join the healthcare industry; he sought to redefine it. With vision and determination, he played a pivotal role in the growth of one of Louisiana’s largest dental groups, establishing seven locations and setting the stage for further growth. His commitment to quality care and patient satisfaction helped set a new standard in the dental community.
However, it was not just the world of dentistry that captured his entrepreneurial spirit. Driven by a passion for real estate and design, he ventured into the realm of restaurant ownership and development, breathing new life into Northeast Louisiana’s dining scene. His intuitive sense for branding and quality transformed Monroe’s culinary landscape, introducing some of the area’s most recognizable and beloved establishments. As an early pioneer in the revitalization of downtown Monroe, he didn’t just open restaurants; he created gathering places that fostered community and celebration.
Beyond the culinary world, his entrepreneurial journey continued to unfold in diverse ventures, each marked by his signature dedication to excellence and innovation. Whether in healthcare, real estate, or the culinary arts, his efforts were not just about business success; they were about enhancing the fabric of the community.
At the heart of this story is not just a tale of professional achievements but also a narrative of personal growth and family. Married to his beautiful wife, Ariana, together they are a powerhouse couple co-owning Arons Pharmacy and Diner, blending family, business, and community in every endeavor. They are blessed with three wonderful children, embodying the joy and fulfillment of a balanced and rich life.
What truly sets him apart is his insatiable appetite for learning and growth. His journey is a testament to the idea that with passion, dedication, and a willingness to innovate, one can leave a lasting impact on the world around them. His ventures are not just businesses; they are expressions of his commitment to quality, design, and the creation of enduring brands.
This narrative is more than just a biopic; it’s an inspiration. It speaks to the power of dreaming big, working hard, and staying true to one’s values. From the dirt roads of rural Louisiana to the board rooms of Monroe, his story is a beacon for aspiring entrepreneurs, a reminder that with vision and perseverance, anything is possible.
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Director of Operations
Nick Marchand
Amid the rich traditions of Southern hospitality, Nick Marchand’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and leadership. From his early years, Nick’s journey in hospitality has been driven by a desire to create memorable experiences, a mission he now champions as the Director of Operations for Five Senses LLC.
Nick’s path to success began at Louisiana Tech University, where he earned a Bachelor’s in Business Management, laying the foundation for a career dedicated to excellence in the food service industry. Yet, his love for hospitality was sparked much earlier, during his senior year of high school at a local Sonic, where he discovered the joy of serving others and building connections through food. This experience set the stage for a career that would see him rise through the ranks of some of the region’s most recognizable establishments.
Over the years, Nick honed his craft in leadership positions, from his four years as Service Manager at Copeland’s in Monroe, LA, to his role as General Manager of McDonald’s in Winnsboro, LA, followed by another four years at the helm of Red Lobster in Monroe, LA. These diverse roles not only sharpened his operational expertise but also deepened his commitment to creating environments where guests feel welcome and valued. For the past three years, Nick has brought his vision and expertise to Five Senses LLC, shaping the brand into a destination known for its warmth, innovation, and exceptional service. His dedication to guest satisfaction and his relentless pursuit of operational excellence have been key to the company’s continued success.
Beyond his professional achievements, Nick’s personal story is one of resilience, love, and family. He is married to his high school sweetheart, Heather Marchand, and together they have built a life centered on faith and gratitude. Their family is blessed with three wonderful children, including their oldest, Toni, who brings joy and laughter to their home. While they have endured the heartbreaking loss of two children, Rayna and Micah, their memory serves as a daily reminder for Nick to live with purpose and to lead with empathy and strength.
Nick’s leadership at Five Senses LLC is rooted in a deep commitment to fostering a culture of joy, collaboration, and excellence. He believes that every team member plays a vital role in creating unforgettable experiences for guests, and he leads by example, ensuring that the values of hospitality, integrity, and dedication are woven into the fabric of the company’s operations.
At its core, Nick’s story is not just one of professional success, but of personal triumph, family, and the enduring impact of true leadership. His journey serves as an inspiration for those who seek to build not just businesses, but communities where people feel connected and cared for.