Dynamic and customer-focused server with over 10 years of experience in the hospitality industry, dedicated to delivering exceptional service and creating memorable dining experiences for every guest. Proven ability to leverage strong communication and interpersonal skills to foster positive relationships with guests and team members, significantly contributing to overall team success. Organized multitasker with over 6 years of experience as a lead bartender, prioritizing efficiency and speed in production while crafting exceptional cocktails using seasonal ingredients. Committed to maintaining equipment and work areas to meet and exceed industry standards, with full authorization to work in the US for any employer.
Hi, I’m
Maria Elena Tinoco
Walnut Creek,CA
Summary
Overview
12
years of professional experience
1
Certification
Work History
The LOT City Center San Ramon, CA
Server , Bartender
02.2024 - Current
Job overview
- Delivered exceptional customer service, ensuring timely and accurate order fulfillment.
- Collaborated with kitchen staff to streamline food preparation processes.
- Trained new servers on menu knowledge and service standards.
- Managed multiple tables simultaneously while maintaining high service quality.
- Recommended menu items based on guest preferences and dietary restrictions.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of dining area in compliance with health regulations.
- Demonstrated strong multitasking skills by managing multiple tables simultaneously without compromising service quality.
- Served food and beverages promptly with focused attention to customer needs.
- Developed strong rapport with regular customers through genuine hospitality efforts leading to repeat business.
The Brass Door San Ramon, CA
Lead Bartender
11.2023 - 12.2025
Job overview
- Led cocktail preparation and presentation, ensuring adherence to quality standards.
- Trained and mentored junior bartenders in mixology techniques and customer service excellence.
- Managed inventory levels, reducing waste through effective stock rotation strategies.
- Developed seasonal drink menus, enhancing customer engagement and sales.
- Developed a following of customers and knew everyone by name
The salt cuisineSan Ramon, CA
Beverage Manager / Server / Bartender
11.2018 - 06.2020
Job overview
- Successfully managed and maintained a fully equipped bar, ensuring readiness for all service shifts.
- Created innovative and enticing seasonal cocktails to accompany quarterly menu changes, utilizing fresh and seasonal ingredients.
- Expertly managed liquor and wine inventory, ensuring optimal stock levels and minimizing waste.
- Trained and mentored new cocktail/bartenders/bar-backs, enhancing their bar function and beverage-knowledge to provide exceptional guest service.
- Responsible for handling checkouts and tips, maintaining accurate records of payments.
- Poured and tended to the entire restaurant and bar, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable dining-experience for guests.
- Led the hiring and training process for the front-of-house staff, creating hiring packets and comprehensive training materials.
- Focused on presenting our product in an attractive manner to create interest and increase monthly sales.
- Managed invoices.
- Acted as an on-call supervisor, effectively handling any issues or emergencies that arose during shifts.
- Created and managed weekly schedules for the front-of-house team, ensuring adequate coverage and smooth operations.
Higher End SecurityDanville, CA
Processor
01.2014 - 05.2020
Job overview
- Facilitated the smooth onboarding process for new customers by efficiently processing their information into the system.
- Conducted welcome calls to new customers, effectively upselling account upgrades to enhance their experience.
- Provided comprehensive training to new employees, ensuring they accurately input customer information.
- Managed the assignment of technicians to new installations, ensuring timely and efficient service delivery.
- Handled equipment procurement for job installations, ensuring all necessary items were ordered in a timely manner.
- Proactively generated new customer leads and successfully converted them into sales.
- Consistently met or exceeded monthly sales quotas, demonstrating a strong commitment to achieving targets.
BridgesDanville, CA
Bartender/Server
03.2015 - 08.2018
Job overview
- Provided detailed information about menu items, made recommendations, and upsold specials to increase guest satisfaction and sales.
- Took accurate food and beverage orders, ensuring specific dietary needs and preferences were accounted for.
- Delivered orders promptly and efficiently while maintaining proper food handling and safety protocols.
- Demonstrated strong knowledge of food and beverage pairings, assisting guests in selecting the perfect options.
- Anticipated and fulfilled guests' needs throughout the dining experience, ensuring their comfort and satisfaction.
- Processed payments accurately and efficiently, handling cash and operating point-of-sale systems.
- Addressed any guest concerns or issues promptly and professionally, ensuring prompt resolution and their continued satisfaction.
- Efficiently managed bar inventory, consistently restocking supplies to ensure uninterrupted service and meet customer demands.
- Collaborated with vendors to maintain a well-stocked bar, negotiating favorable pricing and timely deliveries.
- Conducted regular inventory audits to identify and replenish low-stock items, minimizing downtime and maximizing customer satisfaction.
- Demonstrated strong attention to detail in monitoring stock levels, promptly restocking essential ingredients, garnishes, and barware.
- Proactively communicated with management.
- Maintained a clean and organized bar storage area, ensuring easy access to supplies during busy service periods.
Education
Clayton Valley High SchoolConcord, CA
High school diploma
05.2006
University Overview
Bachelor's degree
University Overview
Skills
- Microsoft Office
- Photography
- Time management
- Cooking
- Cash handling
- Computer literacy
- Bartending
- Merchandising
- Wine knowledge
- Strong work ethic
- Exceptional customer service
- Hospitality service expertise
- Memory retention
- Cleanliness standards
- Safe food handling
- Menu memorization
- High volume dining
- Team collaboration
- Sales expertise
- Supply restocking
- Tableside etiquette
- Daily specials memorization
- Multitasking and organization
- Calm demeanor
Accomplishments
Accomplishments
- Won "Employee of the Year" at The LOT City Center.
Certification
- Driver's License Present
- RBS License August 2024 to August 2028
- Food Handler Certification September 2022 to September 2025
- CPR Certification
- ServSafe
- Bartender License
- TABC Certified
Languages
English
Professional Working
Timeline
Server , Bartender
The LOT City Center
02.2024 - Current
Lead Bartender
The Brass Door
11.2023 - 12.2025
Beverage Manager / Server / Bartender
The salt cuisine
11.2018 - 06.2020
Bartender/Server
Bridges
03.2015 - 08.2018
Processor
Higher End Security
01.2014 - 05.2020
Clayton Valley High School
High school diploma
Bachelor's degree