New at Southbound: Eugenie Gloria Wong

Born in London, raised in New Jersey, and now a year into Charleston, Eugenie is enjoying the supportive environment at Southbound while she plans to build her own business.

Where do you live, and where are you originally from?

I live in downtown Charleston, about ten minutes from Upper King. I was born in Chelsea, London, and moved to New Jersey when I was six. I consider myself more of a Jersey girl, but I love having the mix – I think the different influences shaped who I am, and I wouldn’t want it any other way.

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You’re not a Charleston native – when and why did you move here?

I came in August to attend the College of Charleston, where I just finished my freshman year. I always thought I’d end up in California, but after visiting once, I knew this was it. What stood out was the people – everyone’s kind, and everyone’s connected to each other. Charleston taught me how much relationships and community matter. I was also surprised how much your environment changes you. I dreaded the cold in New Jersey, and living somewhere warm and beautiful year-round has made a huge difference.

Where do you work, and what’s your role?

I’m at Southbound – host, server assistant, and server-in-training. I fill whatever role the night needs. My favorite part is the team. Southbound is part of a family of four restaurants, and everyone treats each other like family. Tips are pooled rather than individual, so people help each other instead of competing. Everyone comes in together, and everyone leaves together. It’s one of the most supportive places I’ve ever worked, and I’ve loved getting to know the guests too.

What else keeps you busy?

A lot. I work mornings at J.Crew, intern with Eventful Erin and Walk with CHS on social media and events, take summer classes at TTC, and serve as VP of Events for Alpha Delta Pi.

You wrote a book. Tell us about it.

Yes – I wrote a children’s book two years ago – Penny’s Day on the Farm. I grew up with incredible role models, and I wanted to pass those lessons about values and character on to younger kids.

What are your plans for the future?

I want to start my own event planning company. That passion comes from my grandfather, who passed a few years ago. He never said “I love you” – it was always “We love you.” His birthdays could’ve been mistaken for community gatherings: huge crowds of people from every background, some he’d only met once or twice, all brought together by his presence. He made everyone feel welcomed and valued. That’s exactly what I want to create. To me, events are more than just the social side – they’re about meaningful connections and making an impact.

What do you do in your spare time?

Reading, walking, shopping, making art. I love painting and drawing, and recently – thanks to a professor – I’ve gotten into pottery. And living here, I’m always exploring Charleston’s endless restaurants, shops, and walking routes.

What’s your favorite dish?

Sushi – specifically fatty tuna sashimi and salmon. I could eat it every meal. Part of why I love it is the memories attached. There’s a little restaurant back home called Little Tokyo that’s been a staple since the first week we moved to New Jersey. Good grades, special occasions, ordering out – it was always Little Tokyo. We even had Christmas dinner from there once. When I think of sushi, I think of family and milestones.

If you could share a meal with anyone, who would it be?

Adam Sandler. He’s my favorite actor and seems genuine, down-to-earth, and funny. The conversation would be effortless, and he’d definitely know a restaurant with amazing food where I’d spend most of the time laughing instead of eating.

What’s the best advice you ever got?

“Mi palabra es mi compromiso” – “My word is my bond.” If you say you’ll do something, you do it. Your reputation is built on your actions, and people remember whether they can count on you. It’s made me more dependable and accountable, and I carry it with me everywhere.

If money wasn’t an object, what would you do?

Travel the world with my family. I’ve already had the chance to volunteer in Africa and Latin America, and those were some of the most humbling, fulfilling experiences of my life. I’d also spend my time learning – there are so many subjects and skills I’m interested in.