The Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce is pleased to shine the spotlight on Brittany Lewitz in our “Community Proud” series sponsored by Charter Oak Credit Union. Brittany serves as the Food and Beverage Director for A.T.Y Hospitality and Sift, where she helps oversee several of the region’s most well known dining destinations and bakeries while fostering the welcoming culture that has become a hallmark of the company.

Brittany grew up just about twenty minutes from Mystic and has spent the last decade building her career with A.T.Y Hospitality. Her journey began in the early days of Sift Bake Shop, long before it became the thriving group of businesses it is today. Over the years, Brittany has taken on nearly every role imaginable, gaining a deep understanding of the company from the ground up.

She first worked in the front of house at Sift before spending time in the kitchen, learning the operations behind the scenes. Recognizing her leadership skills and natural ability to connect with people, owner Adam Young encouraged Brittany to step into management. She eventually moved into front of house management before being brought to Mix Rooftop in 2021, where she balanced serving and management responsibilities. Today, as Food and Beverage Director, Brittany oversees operations across Mix Rooftop, A.T.Y Bar & Bonbons in Mystic, and A.T.Y at Mohegan Sun, helping guide teams and maintain the high standards that guests have come to expect.

“It’s been a whirlwind,” Brittany says when reflecting on the company’s growth. “Watching a small bakery with just a few seats grow into what Sift and A.T.Y are today has been incredible. Adam has built such a strong culture rooted in community, and it’s amazing to be part of that.”

Part of what keeps Brittany grounded in her work is the sense of family she feels with the team around her. She credits the supportive environment among staff and leadership for creating a workplace that people truly enjoy being part of.

“We really are like a family here,” she says. “Everyone does their job and does it well. It creates a positive atmosphere where people are professional, supportive, and happy to come to work.”

Brittany’s career has continued to evolve alongside the company. Recently, she achieved a major personal milestone by becoming a certified sommelier, deepening her knowledge of wine and hospitality. Her interest in wine first began while working at Ocean House earlier in her career, where she developed a fascination with the craft and characteristics behind winemaking.

Looking back on her professional journey, Brittany says she is most proud of starting from the ground level and working her way into a leadership role within the company. She credits much of that growth to the mentorship she has received along the way.

“I wouldn’t be where I am today without Adam helping guide my career,” she says. “Having a mentor like that is a once in a lifetime opportunity.”

Those who work alongside Brittany describe her as a direct and authentic leader. She believes trust is built through honesty and clear communication, and she approaches her role with both professionalism and sincerity. When asked to describe herself, Brittany says three words come to mind: funny, brutally honest, and loving.

At the heart of her work is a passion for hospitality and making people happy. Whether through exceptional food, thoughtful service, or simple acts of kindness, Brittany finds joy in creating positive experiences for others.

“Hospitality is about making people happy,” she says. “I love seeing people have a great time and leaving with a smile on their face.”

Brittany also hopes to see the hospitality scene in Mystic continue to grow in the coming years. She would love to see more opportunities created for people entering the industry, along with continued diversity and cultural influence in the region’s restaurant landscape.

For Brittany, what truly makes this area feel like home is the strong sense of support within the community.

“People recognize the work you put into the community and they want to support you,” she says. “It’s really special to have people in your corner.”

Outside of work, Brittany enjoys spending time with her family, her girlfriend Kerri, and their two dogs. The couple often takes what Brittany calls “food adventures,” happily driving hours in search of their favorite barbecue or Chinese food. She also cherishes time spent with her sister and nieces.

Despite her outgoing personality at work, Brittany shares that many people might be surprised to learn she is naturally quite shy. Still, her kindness, dedication, and passion for hospitality shine through in everything she does.

When asked what being recognized in the Community Proud series means to her, Brittany answered with humility.