Blake Morton

Urban Grub – Nashville, TN

Sommelier / Wine Director (Acting) • January 2024 – Present.

• Own the full strategy and execution of a 325-label wine program, including purchasing, allocations, cellar development, and list structure across benchmark regions and high-growth categories.
• Grew the cellar from 180 to 325+ selections while maintaining a balance between allocation-focused classics and progressive discovery wines.
• Drive menu engineering and revenue growth, increasing wine sales and average check value through strategic pricing, BTG optimization, and feature curation.
• Build and maintain VIP and collector relationships, delivering high-touch, table-side hospitality that drives repeat reservations and premium bottle sales.
• Lead weekly wine education and service training for the FOH team, raising guest engagement, and increasing team wine confidence and selling ability.
• Champion a list identity focused on terroir transparency, classic producers, and wines that punch above their price point, integrating both world-class benchmarks, and small grower excellence.
• Secure highly allocated placements through distributor relationships and a targeted buying strategy, strengthening Burgundy, Rhône, Napa, and grower Champagne depth.
• Implement inventory accuracy systems and cost-control strategies to protect program health and profitability.
• Collaborate with culinary leadership on pairing-driven experiences and private dining selections that elevate the guest experience and top-line beverage revenue.
• Advancing program development toward the Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence, including vertical building, old-world depth, list navigation clarity, and cellar integrity.
• Recognized by ownership for leadership in beverage development, and trusted with long-term program direction.

• Lead daily operations with a relentless commitment to excellence, ensuring every dish and service experience is flawless.
• Cultivate meaningful connections with guests, actively seeking and applying their feedback to continuously refine and elevate our restaurant’s offerings.
• Oversee inventory management with precision, ensuring all supplies are meticulously ordered and stocked to meet our high standards.
• Create an inviting and memorable atmosphere, going above and beyond to guarantee each guest leaves with an unforgettable dining experience.

• Orchestrated inventory and stock management with an unwavering focus on availability and operational flow, ensuring a seamless experience for our guests.
• Directed a team of 50 with a focus on harmony and efficiency, fostering a collaborative environment that supports exceptional service.
• Addressed and resolved guest concerns with urgency and grace, transforming potential issues into opportunities for delight.
• Crafted and implemented innovative floor plans and layouts, designed to maximize both guest satisfaction and revenue potential.
• Curated a distinguished wine list, catering to a broad spectrum of tastes and preferences, and offering personalized recommendations to enhance the dining journey.
• Empowered the team with in-depth wine knowledge through dynamic training sessions, ensuring each member could deliver expert advice and elevate the guest experience.

• Managed multiple tables with high efficiency and attentive service.
• Utilized POS systems for order and billing management.
• Collaborated with team members to ensure smooth operations during peak times.
• Maintained thorough knowledge of the menu to provide accurate recommendations and enhance guest satisfaction.

• Delivered warm, efficient service and managed table maintenance.
• Maintained a clean and organized dining area, ensuring a pleasant experience for guests.
• Supported servers by promptly responding to needs and ensuring timely delivery of food and beverages.