Dimitrios Karagiannis
New York,NY
Summary
Beverage Director with extensive experience, recognized for creating award-winning wine programs, and managing high-performing teams. Proven expertise in wine program development and enhancing guest relations, resulting in increased sales and improved dining experiences. Strong commitment to operational excellence through collaboration and staff mentorship.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
Work History
General Manager
Nerai
New York, NY
11.2024 - Current
- Directed FOH and BOH teams in 150-seat fine dining restaurant with over $5 million in annual sales.
- Managed large team across service, kitchen, and beverage departments to enhance guest satisfaction.
- Collaborated with ownership and executive chef on strategic planning, budgeting, hiring, and vendor relations.
- Sustained restaurant's acclaimed reputation through superior service and operational leadership.
Beverage Director
Nerai
New York, NY
05.2022 - Current
- Managed 700+ label wine list, earning Wine Spectator's Best of Award of Excellence for consecutive years.
- Directed sommelier and bartender teams to optimize wine sales and control expenses.
- Received recognition from Star Wine List for outstanding wine programming.
Beverage Director
Nerina
Brooklyn, NY
01.2025 - Current
- Spearheaded launch of Nerina, sister restaurant of Nerai, in Greenpoint.
- Developed all-Greek wine list, recognized by Wine Spectator and Star Wine List, featuring over 100 labels.
- Oversaw full beverage program, leading bar and sommelier team to achieve excellence.
Sommelier
Nerai
New York, NY
05.2020 - 05.2022
- Facilitated development of wine list and staff training programs.
- Delivered premium pairing experiences within high-volume fine dining setting.
Captain
Nerai
New York, NY
05.2018 - 05.2020
- Executed high-quality fine dining service in one of Midtown Manhattan's most popular upscale restaurants.
Server/Manager
Korali
New York, NY
05.2016 - 05.2018
- Managed beverage inventory and trained staff to ensure efficient service.
- Oversaw daily operations, including scheduling, opening, and closing duties.
- Operated in high-volume, fast-paced casual dining environment on Upper East Side.
Busboy
Broadway Diner
Bayonne, New Jersey
10.2015 - 04.2016
- Delivered overnight assistance at a high-traffic 24/7 diner.
Education
Certified Sommelier (Completed Advanced Course) -
Court of Master Sommeliers
Alcohol Awareness, Beverage Mixing & Service Certificate -
American Bartenders School
New York, NYFood Protection Certification -
New York City Department of Health
French language classes -
L'Alliance
New York, NYJournalism -
AKMI College
Athens, GreeceSkills
- Wine program development
- Beverage cost control
- Inventory management
- Staff training and mentoring
- Public speaking
- Team leadership
- Vendor relations
- Guest relations
- Fine dining expertise
- Wine pairing
Languages
Greek
Native/ Bilingual
English
Full Professional
French
Limited
Spanish
Limited
Timeline
Beverage Director
Nerina
01.2025 - Current
General Manager
Nerai
11.2024 - Current
Beverage Director
Nerai
05.2022 - Current
Sommelier
Nerai
05.2020 - 05.2022
Captain
Nerai
05.2018 - 05.2020
Server/Manager
Korali
05.2016 - 05.2018
Busboy
Broadway Diner
10.2015 - 04.2016
Certified Sommelier (Completed Advanced Course) -
Court of Master Sommeliers
Alcohol Awareness, Beverage Mixing & Service Certificate -
American Bartenders School
Food Protection Certification -
New York City Department of Health
French language classes -
L'Alliance
Journalism -
AKMI College
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