MELISSA HOLGUIN PINEDA
Seattle
Summary
Warm, detail-oriented hospitality professional with over 7 years of experience in high-volume and fine dining environments, including leadership as a Lead Host at an acclaimed upscale restaurant. Skilled in managing reservations, takeout operations, and front-of-house coordination using platforms like Resy and POS systems. Recognized for a positive, polished demeanor, exceptional organizational skills, and a strong commitment to delivering seamless guest experiences. Open schedule availability and a genuine enthusiasm for Japanese cuisine and culture. A motivated self-starter with a team-first mindset and proven ability to thrive in fast-paced, service-driven settings.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
Work History
Lead Hostess
Departure Restaurant + Lounge
03.2022 - 03.2025
- Managed high-volume phone lines to efficiently take reservations, delivering exceptional service while maintaining composure during peak hours.
- Provided expert knowledge of the restaurant’s exclusive menu, seating arrangements, and policies, offering accurate wait times and personalized recommendations to elevate the guest experience.
- Strategically assigned guests to tables based on party needs, server rotation, and pacing requirements to optimize both service flow and guest satisfaction in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
- Collaborated seamlessly with servers, food runners, and bussers to ensure table turnover efficiency and uphold Departure’s elevated service standards.
- Delivered detailed, prompt responses to guest inquiries regarding availability, dietary needs, and special accommodations, reflecting a deep understanding of the restaurant’s brand and service expectations.
Server
Farmers, Fishers, Bakers
05.2019 - 12.2021
- Ensured optimal guest experience by seating guests, taking orders, serving dishes, and removing dinnerware promptly and with a positive attitude
- Managed orders and financial transactions using digital Point of Sale system
- Knowledgeably recommended menu items based on customer needs and preferences
- Consistently averaged above 19% charge tip percentage
Host
La Carreta Mexican Restaurant
05.2019 - 12.2021
- Greet and acknowledge guests and seat patrons by escorting them to assigned table or communicate delays and offer additional services such as beverages to keep them occupied while waiting
- Present menus, create personal dining experience, answer questions, and offer information on menu items, beverages, and specials
- Walk through dining room during service to ensure guest satisfaction and advise servers and bussing staff of specific service needs
Server
La Carreta Mexican Restaurant
12.2018 - 05.2019
- Assist guests in order selection by promoting specific menu items and specials
- Up-sell appetizers, specialty beverages, and desserts to increase guest check averages
- Coordinate with kitchen staff to ensure timely and accurate order preparation
- Regularly follow-up with guest tables and promptly fulfill additional requests
- Collect payments and balance transactions with receipts
Education
Bachelor of Arts & Sciences - International Relations, Sociology
American University
01.2019
Bachelor of Arts & Sciences - undefined
Vancouver School of Arts and Academics
01.2015
Skills
- Customer Service
- Time Management
- Teamwork
- Communication
- Cleanliness
- Conflict Resolution
- Leadership
- Point of Sale Systems
- Marketing support
Languages
Spanish
Native or Bilingual
Timeline
Lead Hostess
Departure Restaurant + Lounge
03.2022 - 03.2025
Server
Farmers, Fishers, Bakers
05.2019 - 12.2021
Host
La Carreta Mexican Restaurant
05.2019 - 12.2021
Server
La Carreta Mexican Restaurant
12.2018 - 05.2019
Bachelor of Arts & Sciences - undefined
Vancouver School of Arts and Academics
Bachelor of Arts & Sciences - International Relations, Sociology
American University
Similar Profiles
Barsa MaharanaBarsa Maharana
Associate at Enclam Lounge domestic departure RGIAssociate at Enclam Lounge domestic departure RGI
Trisha-kay WhyteTrisha-kay Whyte
Manager at Lounge Zero Restaurant and LoungeManager at Lounge Zero Restaurant and Lounge
Eric LorentzEric Lorentz
Installer at Departure MediaInstaller at Departure Media