Nicolas Lopez
Studio City,CA
Summary
Accomplished Food & Beverage Manager with more than a decade of progressive leadership experience in luxury hotels, fine dining, and high-volume restaurant operations. Expert in driving service excellence, operational efficiency, and profitability through strategic planning and hands-on team development. Recognized for cultivating motivated teams, optimizing financial performance, and consistently delivering elevated guest experiences aligned with brand standards.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
Work History
Food and Beverage Manager / General Manager
The Langham Hotel Pasadena
Pasadena, CA
05.2023 - Current
- Oversee day-to-day food and beverage operations for multiple outlets, including The Royce Wood-Fired Steakhouse, a Forbes Five-Star fine-dining venue.
- Lead a multidisciplinary team of managers, servers, and culinary staff to deliver world-class service and uphold luxury brand standards.
- Direct strategic initiatives focused on enhancing profitability, guest satisfaction, and operational efficiency across the property’s dining outlets.
- Collaborate closely with the Executive Chef and Director of Food & Beverage on menu engineering, wine programming, and service refinement.
- Analyze financial performance, forecast budgets, and implement cost-control strategies to maximize revenue and departmental performance.
- Ensure full compliance with health, safety, and labor regulations while maintaining exceptional guest experiences.
Assistant General Manager
Laurel Tavern
Studio City, CA
08.2021 - 05.2023
- Oversaw front- and back-of-house operations for a high-volume gastropub, including payroll, inventory, and budget management.
- Supervised and coached a team of 30+ employees, promoting accountability, service consistency, and professional growth.
- Implemented sales and marketing initiatives that improved guest retention and increased beverage sales.
- Resolved guest concerns with diplomacy and professionalism, reinforcing brand loyalty and satisfaction.
Assistant Manager
Harvest Moon Café
North Hollywood, CA
02.2018 - 06.2021
- Managed operational functions, including vendor relations, purchasing, and cost control for a busy neighborhood café.
- Conducted employee evaluations and developed training programs to improve service quality and operational efficiency.
- Supported menu development and special event coordination, enhancing the guest experience and revenue streams.
Assistant / Bar Manager
Tony Roma’s
Encino, CA
03.2016 - 01.2018
- Directed bar operations, including staff supervision, inventory management, and beverage cost analysis.
- Drove beverage program profitability through upselling strategies and enhanced staff product knowledge.
- Maintained regulatory compliance and ensured a consistent, high-quality guest experience.
Assistant Manager
Sportsmen’s Lodge Hotel / RiverRock Lounge
Studio City, CA
03.2012 - 03.2016
- Supported hotel and restaurant operations for a landmark property, focusing on guest relations and service excellence.
- Coordinated staff scheduling and training to ensure smooth service execution during high-volume periods and large-scale events.
- Assisted in implementing quality control procedures and event service standards aligned with brand expectations.
Skills
- Leadership & Staff Development
- Financial Analysis & Budgeting
- Guest Service Excellence
- Inventory & Cost Management
- Strategic Operations Planning
- Vendor Negotiation
- Team Motivation & Training
- P&L; Accountability
- Quality Assurance & Compliance
Timeline
Food and Beverage Manager / General Manager
The Langham Hotel Pasadena
05.2023 - Current
Assistant General Manager
Laurel Tavern
08.2021 - 05.2023
Assistant Manager
Harvest Moon Café
02.2018 - 06.2021
Assistant / Bar Manager
Tony Roma’s
03.2016 - 01.2018
Assistant Manager
Sportsmen’s Lodge Hotel / RiverRock Lounge
03.2012 - 03.2016