In a Changing World, Some Things at Rocklands Never Change
Everywhere you look, the food world is shifting. Fast-casual chains are pushing out pre-packaged meals, and even your favorite neighborhood spots seem to swap staff as often as they change the menu. But walk into Rocklands, and you’ll notice something different—something steady.
While trends come and go, our core remains the same:
Food and family, together, make a place feel like home.
The Rocklands Family Are More Than Just Co-workers
It’s not just a slogan on the wall. Rocklands is, in every sense, a family business. Not only are we family-owned and family-run, but we actively bring families into the fold.
In fact, over 90% of our staff have a relation or connection working right alongside them. We’ve got siblings, cousins, even parents and grown children working side by side. Some of our team members represent the second and even third generation to join Rocklands. And that’s not just a fun fact; it’s a way of life. Many on our team have been with us for years, even decades, building bonds that go far beyond the time clock.
Even though I’m related to the owner of Rocklands, it’s also the people here, the work family, that have always made this place feel like home to me. I first started working at Rocklands in 2005 and over the last 20 years, I’ve lived abroad and in four different time zones, put thousands of miles between myself and the restaurant, but every time I come back, it feels like I never left.
The familiar smells, the faces I remember, the taste of that first bite of a pulled chicken sandwich. It’s all tied to memories that make Rocklands feel like home, no matter where I’ve been or how long I’ve been gone.
Stories from Our Family
I want to tell you a couple of stories so pull up a chair as I share a few personal stories from our own family, giving you a real glimpse into the heart, soul and unique bond we share here.
The Cruz Family Legacy
Back in 2004, Owner John Snedden hired Maria Cruz. A few years later, in May 2007, Maria’s son Marvin joined the team, he’d just turned 15. The following May, Marvin’s sister Yesenia came on board too.
These days, Marvin’s running the show as an Operations Manager, while Yesenia and their mom are two of the fantastic Food Prep crew at our Alexandria location.
Generations of Dedication
Rebecca, who is the Head of Operations, actually got her start at the DC store in April 2001. She transferred over in January 2004, seven months pregnant with her son, Andrew. Andrew got involved early, working in the catering warehouse at 14, packing trucks and picking up odd jobs. He moved on to food prep, then became a food truck driver, worked as a CSR, handled catering, and now he’s the one leading our team at Nationals Park.
Rebecca’s daughter Ava started out in April 2019, also at 14. She began as the second person on the food truck, spent a couple of years there, and then shifted into a CSR role. Now she’s a shift leader.
There’s a running joke among us: not only is Andrew’s mom his boss, but so is his little sister.
The Family We Choose
I’ve got a personal story, too, not about family by blood, but about the kind you find along the way. I first met Carmen Williams, current Catering Operations Manager, when she was working at the register in the Alexandria shop. Later, when she switched over to the catering team, we ended up working side by side and hit it off instantly.
Eventually, we became roommates and, honestly, the family you choose. At this point, we’re more like sisters than just friends. Carmen has helped me out more times than I can count, and she’s even hopped on a plane to the other side of the world just to spend time together, with a bottle of Rocklands Barbeque Sauce in tow, of course! I’m always thankful for the friends and family that Rocklands has brought into my life over the years.
The Impact of Our Family Culture on Your Experience
You might wonder; “Why does this matter to me?” Here’s the thing. When you see the same smiling faces year after year, it means consistent, high-quality food and service. Our team knows your order and your story because they’ve been here long enough to remember. That sense of belonging isn’t just for the staff, it spills over into every guest experience. It’s why people say walking into Rocklands feels like coming home.
- Consistent Quality: Our staff’s longevity ensures your food is made with care, just the way you like it. Just the way you remember it.
- Personalized Service: Familiar faces remember your favorites, making every visit a little more special.
- Warm, Welcoming Atmosphere: A family-first culture means everyone, team and guests alike, feels valued.
Join Our Family
Want to experience the difference yourself?
Stop by a Rocklands location and see what sets us apart. Or, if you’re looking for more than just a meal, consider joining our crew. We’re always looking for people who care about food and family as much as we do.
The Rocklands Difference
In a world that’s always changing, Rocklands stands for something solid with the power of food, values, and family. Step inside, and you’ll taste the difference and feel it, too. Because here, you’re not just a customer. You’re part of the family.
