Michael Cruz
Washington
Summary
Experienced and knowledgeable bartender with a strong background in luxury hospitality settings, including Forbes-rated and fine-dining establishments. Adept at crafting cocktails, upselling high-end beverages, and providing exceptional guest experiences. Known for thorough knowledge of spirits and wines, anticipating guest needs, and thriving in fast-paced, guest-centric environments.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
Work History
Assistant Bartender
The Jefferson Hotel
12.2024 - Current
- Support bartenders in a Forbes five-star hotel bar by preparing cocktails, spirits, and wine orders with speed and accuracy.
- Maintain a clean, organized bar station and ensure all mise en place is ready for service.
- Assist in developing seasonal cocktail offerings and pairings.
- Recommend premium wines and spirits, enhancing guest satisfaction and increasing check averages.
- Train and guide barbacks on preparation, cleanliness, and luxury service standards.
Room Service Coordinator
The Hay-Adams Hotel
07.2024 - 11.2024
- Delivered wine, cocktail, and food orders to guest rooms with a focus on presentation and guest engagement.
- Verified orders and presentation standards, ensuring luxury-level service.
- Processed amenity requests, often including premium beverage offerings.
- Collaborated with kitchen and bar staff to ensure timely preparation and delivery.
Lead Server/Trainer
Intercontinental Hotel / Moonrabbit
10.2021 - 04.2024
- Assisted guests in drink selection and promoted wine and cocktail specials.
- Upsold beverages and dessert pairings to increase guest check averages.
- Promoted to Lead Server for excellence in service and team support.
- Collaborated with beverage team to refine service techniques for large parties and special events.
- Won multiple sales competitions for beverage and wine promotions.
Bartender/Server
Momofuku
03.2016 - 03.2020
- Delivered full bartending service in a high-volume, upscale environment.
- Created specialty cocktails and executed classic recipes with consistency.
- Guided guests in drink selection, wine pairings, and food complements.
- Maintained bar stock and rotated inventory to reduce waste and manage cost.
- Built guest relationships that drove repeat business.
Education
Howard University
Washington, DCundefined
Windham High School
Willimantic, CTSkills
- Forbes Trained
- Bartending & Mixology
- Wine & Spirits Knowledge
- Upselling Expertise
- Guest Engagement
- POS Systems
- Beverage Pairing
- Luxury Service Standards
Qualifications Summary
- Deep knowledge of spirits, cocktails, and wine with a strong understanding of mixology principles.
- Consistently exceed sales targets through upselling and strategic menu suggestions.
- Skilled at providing personalized service that aligns with luxury brand standards.
- Adaptable, professional, and fast under pressure while maintaining poise and hospitality.
Timeline
Assistant Bartender
The Jefferson Hotel
12.2024 - Current
Room Service Coordinator
The Hay-Adams Hotel
07.2024 - 11.2024
Lead Server/Trainer
Intercontinental Hotel / Moonrabbit
10.2021 - 04.2024
Bartender/Server
Momofuku
03.2016 - 03.2020
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Windham High School
Howard University
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