Meet the team
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Meet the team *
We’re Margaret and Karina—a mother-daughter duo and the co-owners of Bao Toan.
For us, this restaurant is more than a business—it’s a piece of our story. My mom, Karina, has lived in Memphis since she was six years old. She learned how to cook from her own mother, mastering the traditional flavors of Vietnamese home cooking and always bringing people together through food.
I (Margaret) was born and raised here in Memphis, and I’ve always felt a deep connection to both our culture and this city. Together, we wanted to create a space that felt like home—a place that honored our roots while offering something fresh and exciting to the Memphis dining scene.
Bao Toan is our love letter to family, food, and the community that raised us. We hope when you walk through our doors, you feel the heart behind every dish.
Karina & Margaret
Born and raised in Memphis, Tony brings over 18 years of bartending experience to Bao Toan Kitchen & Bar. His passion for crafting cocktails goes beyond the glass—each drink is a thoughtful expression of flavor, culture, and story.
Tony leads our bar program with a deep appreciation for both tradition and innovation. Whether he's curating our wine list or creating a new signature cocktail, he brings a personal touch that reflects his love for hospitality and his dedication to showcasing heritage through every pour.
At Bao Toan, Tony isn’t just serving drinks—he’s creating connections, one glass at a time.
Tony
Diana
Diana is the eldest sister of the family and plays a key role behind the scenes at Bao Toan, helping guide our business development and long-term vision. A proud Memphis native now based in Portland, Oregon, Diana brings a unique blend of strategic insight and deep family connection to everything she does.
With a sharp eye for growth opportunities and a heart rooted in our shared heritage, Diana helps us dream big while staying grounded in the values that shaped us. Though she’s miles away, her influence is felt in every part of Bao Toan—from the way we operate to the way we grow.
Diana’s leadership reminds us that family is at the core of everything we do—no matter the distance.
Tori is the heart behind our team operations, overseeing all of our HR needs with care, clarity, and dedication. A Portland native with a strong background in people management, Tori ensures that Bao Toan runs smoothly behind the scenes—supporting our staff, shaping our workplace culture, and helping us grow the right way.
Her thoughtful approach to communication and team wellbeing helps create an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered. Tori’s work may happen behind the curtain, but its impact is felt throughout every corner of the restaurant.
Tori
Bella is the youngest member of our family and the heart behind the name Bao Toan. From a young age, she’s had a natural passion for being in the kitchen—experimenting, perfecting, and cooking with love.
Today, Bella plays an essential role in the kitchen, contributing to many of our signature dishes and creating all of the desserts on our menu, each one made from scratch and rooted in both tradition and creativity. Whether it’s a comforting classic or a modern twist, her desserts reflect the same care and intention found in every part of Bao Toan.
Naming the restaurant after Bella felt right—she represents the next generation, the future of our family’s story, and the reason we continue to share our food with so much heart.