OKAN SEN
New York,NY
Summary
Highly experienced and results-driven hospitality professional with over 5 years of proven success in fine dining restaurants, luxury hotels, and high-profile venues across New York and Atlanta. Skilled in delivering exceptional guest experiences, managing high-volume service, and maintaining an elegant and efficient dining environment. Trusted to serve VIP clients with professionalism and discretion. Holds NYC Food Protection Certificate and extensive training in wine, cocktails, and upscale service.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Captain Waiter and Bartender
Zoi Mediterranean Restaurant
01.2025 - Current
- Supervised daily operations of dining service, ensuring high-quality guest experiences.
- Trained and mentored junior staff on service standards and menu knowledge.
- Coordinated team efforts to streamline food delivery and improve efficiency.
- Developed and implemented training programs for new employees, enhancing onboarding process.
- Resolved customer complaints promptly, maintaining high satisfaction ratings.
- Managed inventory levels, reducing waste through effective stock control practices.
- Trained new hires on restaurant policies, menu offerings, and service techniques for seamless integration into the team.
Server / Bartender
Sea Salt Restaurant
01.2024 - 05.2025
- Delivered fine dining service in a high-volume Mediterranean and seafood restaurant serving an upscale clientele.
- Maintained elevated service standards while building strong guest loyalty through personalized hospitality.
- Applied advanced wine and cocktail knowledge to enhance the overall Mediterranean dining experience and drive sales.
Server
Delmonico's Restaurant
07.2024 - 03.2025
- Provided high-level service at one of NYC's most iconic steakhouses.
- Served VIP and corporate guests with precision and attention to detail.
- Collaborated across departments to ensure seamless service during peak hours and events.
Server
La Grande Boucherie
01.2023 - 12.2023
- Executed authentic French-style brasserie service in a fast-paced environment.
- Guided guests through the menu and wine list, increasing sales through recommendations.
- Recognized for professionalism, grace under pressure, and guest rapport.
Server
The Journey Restaurant
12.2022 - 10.2023
- Delivered elevated fine dining service in a technology-integrated, innovation-driven restaurant concept.
- Operated digital ordering and guest feedback platforms to ensure real-time service optimization and accuracy.
- Collaborated with front and back-of-house teams using tablet-based systems and smart-table technologies to enhance workflow and guest satisfaction.
- Adapted quickly to evolving menus, thematic experiences, and interactive service models unique to the restaurant's modern approach.
Bartender / Server
The Westin Marriott Hotel
07.2021 - 11.2022
- Managed bar and service operations in a high-traffic airport hotel restaurant.
- Led team training, handled large banquet functions, and created craft cocktails.
- Ensured compliance with health and safety regulations while providing efficient guest service.
Education
MBA - Hospitality Management
Istanbul University
01.2020
BA - Tourism Management
Akdeniz University
01.2017
Skills
- Cocktail Creation & Drink Preparation
- Food & Wine Pairing Sommelier Training
- High Liquor Tasting (Macallan, Glenlivet, etc)
- Guest Service & Hospitality Expertise
- Bar Setup, Inventory & POS Management
- Leadership & Team Coordination
- Excellent Communication & Upselling
- Problem Solving & Workflow Optimization
- Fluent in English Native Turkish Basic French
- Table setting
- Order taking
Certification
- NYC Food Protection Certificate
- Sommelier & Wine Pairing Training
- Advanced Cocktail & Liquor Education (Macallan, Glenlivet, Patron, etc.)
- Craft Cocktail Training – London Nightjar
Timeline
Captain Waiter and Bartender
Zoi Mediterranean Restaurant
01.2025 - Current
Server
Delmonico's Restaurant
07.2024 - 03.2025
Server / Bartender
Sea Salt Restaurant
01.2024 - 05.2025
Server
La Grande Boucherie
01.2023 - 12.2023
Server
The Journey Restaurant
12.2022 - 10.2023
Bartender / Server
The Westin Marriott Hotel
07.2021 - 11.2022
BA - Tourism Management
Akdeniz University
MBA - Hospitality Management
Istanbul University