Daniela de la Garza
Chicago,IL
Summary
Versatile food industry and hospitality professional with 15 years combined in guest service environments. Motivated self-starter with focus on attention to detail and exceptional communication skills to enhance guest experience and increase establishment food and beverage sales. Dedicated to creating an atmosphere of respect and empathy for guests and coworkers alike, ensuring optimal workplace functionality.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
Work History
Lead Server
Lamberts
01.2022 - 08.2025
- Managed high volume dining periods with efficiency and grace in a 6 to 9 table section while employing fine dining style service, ensuring proper coursing, table maintenance, and anticipating guest needs.
- Utilized food and beverage knowledge to recommend and upsell appropriately, increasing PPA by an average of 20-30%.
- Promoted a positive workplace culture through teamwork, open communication, and mutual support among coworkers.
- Collaborated with management to create and implement server training guidelines, prioritizing elevated steps of service and seamless teamwork.
- Recognized by management for exceptional menu knowledge, consistently high sales, and positive feedback from guests.
- Worked alongside event captains to execute private events and buyouts that surpassed guest expectations.
Fine Dining Server
Maverick Texas Brasserie
07.2018 - 06.2019
- Generated consistently high sales and guest satisfaction through the implementation of accrued knowledge.
- Kept up with weekly and seasonal menu changes, including daily specials.
- Continued to increase personal food and beverage knowledge through establishment's weekly education courses.
- Functioned professionally and efficiently as a productive member of a highly skilled and driven team.
- Moved through each shift with visibly effortless time management in relation to coursing, resetting, multitasking, formal wine service, and side work.
Server
The Esquire Tavern
07.2017 - 10.2018
- Expanded personal food and beverage knowledge through the establishment's nationally awarded and recognized programs, including a James Beard nomination for Outstanding Bar Program.
- Provided an elevated service experience to generate loyal clientele.
- Actively participated in opening, closing, and running side work while expertly and efficiently managing busy section.
- Gave detailed and informed descriptions of menu items to reduce restaurant profit loss from guest dissatisfaction.
Server
Gennaro's Trattoria
09.2015 - 09.2017
- Assisted guests with food and beverage selections, inquiries and order customization requests.
- Dedicated to continuously improving sales abilities and product knowledge.
- Trained new employees after developing a comprehensive and uniform guide for the restaurant's use.
Assistant Restaurant Manager
La Cote D'or
01.2012 - 01.2013
- Scheduled and directed staff in work assignments to ensure productivity.
- Responsible for daily operations, including opening and closing the restaurant, keeping track of the cash registers, and preparing financial reports.
- Cultivated high-performing team of employees through development and skill-building initiatives.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - English Language And Literature
Texas State University
San Marcos, TX05-2026
Skills
- Fluent in English and Spanish
- Proficient in multiple POS systems
- Team leadership
- Positive and friendly attitude
- Exceptional communication skills
- Staff training
- Takes pride in being detail oriented
- Special event coordination
Timeline
Lead Server
Lamberts
01.2022 - 08.2025
Fine Dining Server
Maverick Texas Brasserie
07.2018 - 06.2019
Server
The Esquire Tavern
07.2017 - 10.2018
Server
Gennaro's Trattoria
09.2015 - 09.2017
Assistant Restaurant Manager
La Cote D'or
01.2012 - 01.2013
Bachelor of Arts - English Language And Literature
Texas State University
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