MELICA BENNETT
High Volume Bartender and Craft cocktail Mixologist
Douglasville,GA
Summary
Accomplished Bartender with extensive experience in high-energy environments, driving guest loyalty through exceptional service and tailored beverage experiences. Skilled in crafting premium drink menus and managing bar operations efficiently, resulting in increased patron satisfaction and retention. Strong leader focused on mentoring staff and maintaining compliance for a safe, upscale atmosphere.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
Work History
Bartender
The Cigar Parlour
Jonesboro, GA
01.2024 - 2026
- Recommended premium spirit selections and specialized cigar pairings based on expert flavor profiling.
- Developed upscale craft beverage menu, enhancing experience for sophisticated lounge clientele.
- Managed inventory control and waste management for high-value liquors and tobacco products, ensuring quality and availability.
- Built strong connections with patrons to enhance their loyalty and experience, fostering loyalty among repeat patrons.
Bartender
Sand Town Pub
South Fulton, GA
01.2023 - 01.2024
- Oversaw full bar-top operations and supported dining floor service, enhancing overall guest experience.
- Executed rapid drink preparation and managed to-go counter and tab reconciliations during peak weekend rushes and concerts, ensuring efficient service.
- Audited POS data and secured cash drawers at closing, maintaining accuracy and accountability.
Bartender
Nancy's Chicago Pizza
Atlanta, GA
01.2017 - 01.2022
- Managed high volume of dine-in and takeout drink orders efficiently in fast-paced restaurant.
- Trained and mentored new bar staff, enhancing adherence to hospitality standards and speed techniques.
- Kept the bar area exceptionally organized and compliant with all local health department rules.
- Collaborated with management to create and launch engaging seasonal drink specials.
Bartender
Main Event Entertainment
Atlanta, GA
01.2015 - 01.2017
- Oversaw group event tabs and processed high transaction counts, ensuring seamless service during peak times.
- Served a highly diverse crowd within a massive, multi-revenue family entertainment and corporate event complex.
- Enforced age verification protocols, maintaining liquor license compliance and ensuring a safe environment for families.
Bartender
Jr. Crickets
Smyrna, GA
01.2011 - 01.2015
- Streamlined draft beer management and cocktail production during tournament rushes, maintaining service quality under pressure.
- Thrived in high-energy Atlanta sports bar during massive gameday crowds, enhancing guest experience.
- Developed relationships with local residents to strengthen community connections., turning first-time sports fans into long-term neighborhood regulars.
Education
BFA - Interior Design
Art Institute of Atlanta
01-2015
Certificate -
Action Bartending School
01-2010
Skills
- Premium Craft Mixology
- Flavor Profiling
- Spirits Knowledge
- Rapid Cocktail Execution
- High-pressure service
- Bar and lounge management
- Menu up-selling
- POS Management (Toast)
- Inventory Auditing
- Stock Management
- Bar Setup and Breakdown
- Opening/Closing Procedures
- Team training
- Guest relations
- ServSafe Safety Compliance
Timeline
Bartender
The Cigar Parlour
01.2024 - 2026
Bartender
Sand Town Pub
01.2023 - 01.2024
Bartender
Nancy's Chicago Pizza
01.2017 - 01.2022
Bartender
Main Event Entertainment
01.2015 - 01.2017
Bartender
Jr. Crickets
01.2011 - 01.2015
BFA - Interior Design
Art Institute of Atlanta
Certificate -
Action Bartending School