Star City Six: Walker Dimon
The Normandy, located at 17th & Van Dorn in Lincoln’s charming Indian Village neighborhood, is a local fine dining concept featuring an authentic French menu, staple wine list, and iconic atmosphere. Walker Dimon is the General Manager of The Normandy (www.thenormandylincoln.com).
How did you get started in the business?
I met our owner Lawrence De Villiers through a University of Nebraska couples cooking class that I attended as a freshman in college. He was the instructor and we learned how to make crepes and handful of other pastries. Later when I came across an opportunity he was advertising for a sous chef in his restaurant, I immediately responded and he hired me on the spot. We immediately clicked very well together. When we relocated to Indian Village I started waiting tables and he offered me the General Manager position shortly after.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?
I’ve really had to step up my game since assuming a management role. For my age, it’s quite a big responsibility, but I’ve had so much support and guidance as I continue to learn the ropes.
What has been your most important achievement professionally?
Earning this title and the trust and confidence that Lawrence has in my capabilities. It means a lot coming from an experienced industry professional such as himself. I know him well; he didn’t just pass out that title, I earned it, and for that I’m extremely proud.
Tell us a little about your family.
I’m born and raised here in Lincoln, and both of my parents are LPS educators. My dad is chair of the English department at East and my mom is a French teacher at Southeast. I have a younger sister Franni who is a freshmen at University of Omaha and hopes to become a social worker.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life?
Traveling to Europe by myself for the first time this past summer. I served as a researcher at an engineering lab in Rouen, France. I figured out a lot about myself during that time.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off?
Mechanical engineering. I’m currently a full-time student and have three semesters left, so that occupies most of my free time. Otherwise, I like to run and read actual books.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know?
I have what most people would consider an unhealthy addiction to Coca-Cola.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
The advice I received from my grandfather when I going off to college. “It’s important to continually seek to broaden your knowledge base by learning new things. Never assume you know all you need to know to be successful in life.”
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be?
Dedicated.
What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why?
The Cooper Foundation, which supports education in the arts and humanities. I am very passionate about the work they do.
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read?
My favorite book, hands down, is The Road by Cormac McCarthy. It examines the relationship between a man and a son and is really thought-provoking.
What is your favorite local restaurant?
Besides The Normandy (of course!), it’s Ali Baba Gyros.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?
Contact the restaurant at (402) 476-0606 or visit us on Facebook!