ERIKO TORRES
Bronx
Summary
Dynamic and results-driven professional with 26 years of extensive experience in the restaurant industry, specializing in recruiting, hiring, and developing top-performing talent. Recognized for a keen ability to identify opportunities for improvement and implement effective solutions that drive productivity and operational excellence. Proven success in surpassing sales and revenue targets through persuasive communication and resourceful strategies. Equipped with exceptional analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills that contribute to team success and organizational growth.
Overview
24
24
years of professional experience
Work History
Bartender
Cantina Taqueria & Teguila Bar
New York, NY
04.2019 - Current
- Crafted and served a diverse range of beverages in high-pressure environment.
- Trained new staff on cocktail preparation techniques and customer service standards.
- Monitored stock levels and coordinated supply orders to support efficient bar operations.
- Developed signature cocktails that enhanced drink menu offerings and increased customer satisfaction.
- Efficiently opened or closed the bar according to established procedures, ensuring preparedness for each shift.
- Followed alcohol awareness procedures for preventing excessive guest intoxication.
Bartender
Hard Rock Cafe @ Times Square
New York, New York
12.2018 - Current
- Executed bartending operations at a high-traffic Times Square venue, crafting an extensive range of signature cocktails for customers from all over the world. Location average 44 million dollars per year.
- Implemented best practices for cleanliness and organization within the bar area.
- Managed inventory levels and ordered supplies to maintain bar operations efficiently.
- Served high customer volumes during special events, nights, and weekends.
Bartender
Chevy’s Tex- Mex @Times Square
New York, New York
11.2016 - 05.2018
- Directed bartending services and conducted staff training at bustling Times Square establishment, focusing on customer satisfaction.
- Oversaw daily cash handling processes, ensuring accuracy and compliance with financial policies.
- Kept bar presentable and well-stocked to meet customer needs.
- Built rapport with regular patrons, fostering loyalty and enhancing overall guest experience.
Bartender/ Manager
LULU'S @ W Hotel
Hoboken, New Jersey
07.2013 - 05.2016
- Oversaw operations at W Hotel in Hoboken, leading to promotion as manager of Club Lulu's and Living Room Bar. Cultivated team talent through coaching and development initiatives. Managed adherence to all opening and closing protocols.
- Developed and implemented seasonal drink menus to enhance customer experience.
- Oversaw venue's social media networks to enhance visibility for Lulu's on the Lawn and W Hotel events.
- Designed and implemented Lulu's on the Lawn event and drink menu.
- Collaborated with owners to devise strategic marketing initiatives for venue promotion and event bookings.
- Oversaw table reservation management and welcomed VIP guests.
- Implemented strategic social media campaigns and engaged promoters to significantly boost revenue generation efforts.
Neighborhood Expert /Server/Bartender
APPLEBEES
New York, New York
04.2009 - 01.2014
- Oversaw training initiatives for new hires, fostering their development into effective team contributors. Championed adherence to best practices among staff to elevate customer service standards. Guided team members in achieving sales targets and enhancing customer satisfaction metrics. Acted as a front of house and back of house manager as necessary to maintain operational efficiency.
- Achieved and surpassed designated sales goals on a shift-by-shift basis to drive revenue growth.
- Ensure that proper procedures are followed on shift closure for myself and team
- Planned and executed large catering events
- Achieved A inspection rating for five years
- Ensure that all health code policy and procedures are followed by me and staff
- Involved in opening of new floor of restaurant – layout, staffing, code standards
- Increased store revenue by 34% YOY 2012-2013
- Consulted with Manager to develop strategies to accelerate training and development
- Tapped as a lead for Team Building exercise resulting in awards of excellence
Server/ Bartender/ Restaurant Manager
OUR HOUSE RESTAURANT
Farmingdale, NJ
05.2009 - 04.2010
- Oversaw restaurant operations in a fast-paced American cuisine environment. Elevated from server to bartender and ultimately to manager, demonstrating leadership capabilities. Developed talent through effective training programs and maintained adherence to health regulations.
- Designed and launched new drink menu to enhance customer experience and boost sales.
- Engaged with online communities to promote restaurant offerings and drive increased weekend patronage.
- Administered reservation system, ensuring efficient booking processes and customer satisfaction.
Head Server
AVENUE
Long Branch, NJ
04.2009 - 09.2009
- A brand new OceanFront upscale French restaurant, with an extensive wine list at the Jersey Shore in Long Branch.
- Directed back waiters in optimizing time utilization to support successful grand opening preparations.
- Properly trained the entire staff on French style service
- Ensured high level of customer satisfaction
- Oversaw preparation of front-of-house with meticulously polished silverware and glassware.
- Monitored and assessed team performance to ensure operational efficiency during shifts.
- Maintained a clean, safe, and welcoming environment through regular monitoring of dining areas and server stations.
Server/ Bartender/ Restaurant Manager
NONNA's
Marlboro, NJ
11.2001 - 04.2009
- Oversaw training initiatives for new employees at a high-volume Italian restaurant in Central Jersey, driving sales of $5 million. Cultivated a culture of excellence by implementing consistent service practices across the team. Championed high customer service standards to elevate guest experiences.
- Advanced to bartender role to enhance guest experience and ensure efficient service.
- Advanced to management role, responsible for driving team performance and achieving organizational goals.
- Orchestrated planning and execution of large-scale catering events.
- Assisted in bar renovations by supporting layout design and staffing adjustments to meet code standards.
Education
Associates Degree - Psychology
Brookdale Community College
Skills
- Training & Development
- Highly reliable
- Team player attitude
- Strong multitasking
- Responsible alcohol service
- Engaging personality
- Customer service expertise
Languages
Spanish
Native or Bilingual
English
Native or Bilingual
Interests
- Gym Workouts
- Enjoy participating in softball for overall physical and mental well-being
- Documenting and sharing travel experiences
- I enjoy cooking for friends and family gatherings
- Personal Development and Self-Improvement
Timeline
Bartender
Cantina Taqueria & Teguila Bar
04.2019 - Current
Bartender
Hard Rock Cafe @ Times Square
12.2018 - Current
Bartender
Chevy’s Tex- Mex @Times Square
11.2016 - 05.2018
Bartender/ Manager
LULU'S @ W Hotel
07.2013 - 05.2016
Server/ Bartender/ Restaurant Manager
OUR HOUSE RESTAURANT
05.2009 - 04.2010
Neighborhood Expert /Server/Bartender
APPLEBEES
04.2009 - 01.2014
Head Server
AVENUE
04.2009 - 09.2009
Server/ Bartender/ Restaurant Manager
NONNA's
11.2001 - 04.2009
Associates Degree - Psychology
Brookdale Community College