Matthew Colucci
Laguna Woods,CA
Summary
Dynamic hospitality professional with extensive experience, excelling in high-end dining service and guest relations. Proven leadership in managing teams to achieve five-star recognition, while demonstrating exceptional wine knowledge and problem-solving skills. Committed to delivering memorable dining experiences through meticulous attention to detail and personalized service.
Employment Gap from May 2020 to Jan 2022 due to Covid.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Fine Dining Server
Five Crowns
Corona del Mar, California
03.2026 - Current
- Delivered high-touch anticipatory service in luxury dining to ensure personalized guest experiences.
- Demonstrated extensive knowledge of seasonal menus and premium ingredients for curated guest interactions.
- Maintained exceptional attention to detail in table presentation to foster a seamless atmosphere.
- Collaborated with culinary and management teams to uphold refined service standards during peak service for up to 800 guests.
Banquet Server
Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants
Palm Springs, CA
12.2023 - 02.2026
- Configured banquet rooms according to event specifications, including table arrangements and audiovisual setups.
- Delivered exceptional service at banquets and special events, ensuring memorable dining experiences.
- Demonstrated effective time management by serving multiple courses to large corporate and VIP groups that range from 10 to 100 guests.
- Maintained attention to detail while managing numerous tasks during high-demand banquet periods.
Dining Service Captain
Wally's Desert Turtle
Palm Desert, CA
10.2023 - 06.2025
- Directed nightly service coordination for four to five team members, including captain, front server, back server, and busser roles.
- Executed full-service operations as primary captain during private events.
- Partnered with elite wine suppliers to deliver upscale wine dinner experiences at private events of up to 100 guests.
- Nurtured long-term relationships with repeat guests, serving families across three generations.
Captain/Assistant Manager
L'Horizon Resort & Spa
Palm Springs, CA
01.2022 - 06.2023
- Achieved and maintained five-star recognition for Sopa restaurant throughout the season.
- Managed a team of 5 hospitality experts to consistently secure five-star reviews.
- Ensured high-end presentation and organization during dinner service in front of house.
- Effectively deescalated service complaints to enhance guest experiences.
- Oversaw inventory management for wine service and front of house operations.
Dining Service Captain
The Vintage Club
Indian Wells, CA
09.2019 - 05.2020
- Delivered exceptional service to high-end clientele at California's premier country club.
- Memorized and recalled dietary preferences for over 100 members.
- Maintained high service standards during professional sporting tournaments with substantial attendance.
Fine Dining Server
Seasons 52
Costa Mesa, CA
11.2012 - 11.2017
- Served as private dining server for business events, celebrations, and weddings, generating income between $1,000 and $10,000.
- Ensured successful closing of day or night shifts by verifying staff adherence to elevated restaurant maintenance standards.
- Acquired loyal customers through exceptional service, resulting in outstanding reviews.
- Managed private dining room operations to enhance guest experience during events.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Kinesiology
Cal State University Fullerton
Fullerton, CA12.2008
Skills
- Sales, Customer Service, and Guest Relations
- Hospitality and Formal Dining Service
- Food & Beverage Operations (Wine and Spirits Knowledge)
- Food Safety, Handling, and Service Compliance
- Restaurant and Food Industry Experience
- Point of Sale (POS) Systems and Order Fulfillment
- Leadership, Decision-Making, and Team Oversight
- Complex Problem Solving and Customer Inquiry Resolution
- Service-Focused, Detail-Oriented, and Multitasking Capabilities
Certification
ServSafe, Food Handler Certification
Languages
English, Fluent
Timeline
Fine Dining Server
Five Crowns
03.2026 - Current
Banquet Server
Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants
12.2023 - 02.2026
Dining Service Captain
Wally's Desert Turtle
10.2023 - 06.2025
Captain/Assistant Manager
L'Horizon Resort & Spa
01.2022 - 06.2023
Dining Service Captain
The Vintage Club
09.2019 - 05.2020
Fine Dining Server
Seasons 52
11.2012 - 11.2017
Bachelor of Science - Kinesiology
Cal State University Fullerton