Rafael Otxoa
New York
Summary
Dynamic bar program manager with extensive experience at Le Mary Celeste, excelling in cocktail development and staff training. Proven ability to enhance customer experiences through innovative menu design and effective communication. Recognized for critical thinking and attention to detail, driving high standards in fast-paced environments.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
Work History
Bartender
Amber room
New York
10.2025 - Current
- Performed high-volume service during rush hours while maintaining focus on detail and quality
Lead Bartender
Pardon Me
New york
08.2024 - 10.2025
- Ensured smooth service during peak hours in high-volume bar operations.
- Developed and implemented seasonal cocktail menus to attract and retain customers.
- Engaged patrons to deliver personalized service and enhance overall experience.
- Created training materials for new hires, emphasizing cocktail preparation and customer interaction.
Lead Bartender
Lucien
New York
01.2023 - 01.2024
- Lead bartender at this high volume nyc institution.
Bar Manager
Tukari
Mexico
01.2023 - 12.2023
- Managed the bar program and all ordering, scheduling and production of cocktail program needs.
Bar Program Manager/Lead Bartender
Reyna
New York
01.2022 - 01.2023
- Helped develop the bar program including wine, beer and cocktails.
- Work service bartending and serving.
Bar Program Manager
Garde Manger
Montreal
01.2019 - 01.2022
- Here I helped with the cocktail program, wine service and every other aspect of service that comes with Garde manger.
- Working at this institution famously owned by chef Chuck Hughes provides a lot of opportunity for growth and honing of service skills.
Bartender
Bar Raval
Toronto
01.2017 - 01.2019
- I was a bartender and served the floor.
- We worked to maintain those standards and improve on a culture that we created in a demanding environment.
- This is a high output, high standards of service institution.
Bartender/Server
Imanishi Japanese Kitchen
Toronto
01.2016 - 01.2018
- Working with a small team we created a program and vibe that has kept this place among one of the busiest and most respected restaurants/bars in Toronto.
- With a good array of cocktails, wines, sakes, and japanese beers we were able to offer a unique program that stepped outside of the normal expectations of a Tokyo style snack bar.
- This is an institution and a driving force behind the culture setting area in Toronto.
Bar Program Manager
Le Mary Celeste
Paris
01.2013 - 01.2016
- This had a very diverse range of duties which included wine program building, cocktail development, schedule management and bartending across all locations to maintain program integrity, hiring staff as well as many other daily tasks.
- I helped manage the bar program at this Parisian cocktail and snack bar, along with its sister restaurants and bars.
Consultant
Le Louis
New York
- Developed an in depth cocktail program both alcoholic and non alcoholic, including recipes, prep manuals.
- I trained the staff on how to execute cocktails and how to properly complete prep to support the menu.
Skills
- Critical thinking and problem solving
- Cocktail and menu development
- Service and event management
- Staff training and leadership
- Effective communication skills
- Attention to detail
- Program management
Projects
Studio Sophomore - production studio Milou - Restaurant Martello - Restaurant Goldies - Wine bar Primrose Bagel Co. - Bagel shop / Cultural hub Great Room - Private Residence Oak Office - Private equity firm offices Miette boulangerie - Bakery Otto Bistro - Japanese fine dining
Languages
- English
- French
- Spanish
Languages
Spanish
Native/ Bilingual
French
Native/ Bilingual
Timeline
Bartender
Amber room
10.2025 - Current
Lead Bartender
Pardon Me
08.2024 - 10.2025
Lead Bartender
Lucien
01.2023 - 01.2024
Bar Manager
Tukari
01.2023 - 12.2023
Bar Program Manager/Lead Bartender
Reyna
01.2022 - 01.2023
Bar Program Manager
Garde Manger
01.2019 - 01.2022
Bartender
Bar Raval
01.2017 - 01.2019
Bartender/Server
Imanishi Japanese Kitchen
01.2016 - 01.2018
Bar Program Manager
Le Mary Celeste
01.2013 - 01.2016
Consultant
Le Louis