Ruben Cabral
Covina,CA
Summary
Dynamic hospitality professional with over 10 years of experience in the restaurant industry, specializing in upscale dining environments that demand exceptional customer service. Proven ability to engage with diverse clientele, from loyal regulars to large parties exceeding 100 guests, while maintaining composure and efficiency under pressure. Recognized for a strong commitment to teamwork and customer satisfaction, consistently adapting to evolving needs and ensuring seamless operations through effective communication and problem-solving skills. Eager to contribute to a team that values excellence in service and culinary quality.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Server
The Derby
Arcadia, CA
12.2024 - 01.2026
- Served food and beverages promptly with focused attention to customer needs.
- Delivered exceptional service to enhance guest satisfaction and loyalty.
- Handled cash transactions accurately, contributing to balanced daily financial reports.
- Set positive tone for entire dining experience as first point of contact for incoming guests.
- Adhered to proper food handling procedures and safety guidelines for the well-being of guests and team members alike.
- Implemented effective communication strategies between front-of-house and back-of-house staff for streamlined operations.
- Consistently met or exceeded performance goals related to sales targets, customer satisfaction ratings, and order accuracy.
- Maintained high standards of personal appearance and hygiene, reflecting positively on establishment.
- Resolved customer complaints with calm, solution-focused approach, ensuring guest satisfaction.
- Maintained thorough menu knowledge to sufficiently answer questions regarding menu item sourcing, ingredients and cooking methods.
Server
Smitty’s Grill
Pasadena, CA
04.2013 - 11.2024
- Delivered exceptional service to enhance guest satisfaction and loyalty.
- Collaborated with kitchen staff to ensure timely food preparation and delivery.
- Trained new servers on menu items, service protocols, and customer engagement strategies.
- Resolved customer complaints promptly, ensuring a positive dining experience.
- Demonstrated strong multitasking skills by managing multiple tables simultaneously without compromising service quality.
- Collaborated with team members during busy shifts for efficient workflow and excellent guest experiences.
- Cultivated warm relationships with regular customers.
- Performed opening and closing duties, ensuring the dining area was prepared for seamless service transitions.
- Provided attentive service during high-volume periods without sacrificing attention to detail or guest rapport.
- Addressed customer complaints or concerns professionally, ensuring swift resolution and maintaining positive relationships.
- Assisted in training new hires, providing guidance on restaurant standards and best practices.
- Supported colleagues during peak hours, fostering a collaborative work environment that enhanced overall productivity levels.
- Followed health and safety protocols crucial for maintaining safe and sanitary environments for customers and staff.
- Developed strong rapport with regular customers through genuine hospitality efforts leading to repeat business.
Bartender / Bar Back
Smitty’s Grill
01.2015 - 01.2017
- Crafted and served a diverse range of cocktails, enhancing customer satisfaction and experience.
- Developed signature drink specials that contributed to increased customer interest and repeat business.
- Managed inventory levels, tracking supplies to minimize waste while ensuring availability of popular ingredients.
- Promoted to Server in 2017.
Busser
Smitty’s Grill
01.2014 - 01.2015
- Assisted servers by promptly clearing tables and resetting for new guests.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of dining area, enhancing guest experience.
Education
Associate of Applied Science -
Citrus College
High School Diploma -
Duarte High School
06-2010
Skills
- Strong work ethic
- Ability to build strong customer relationships
- Experienced in several restaurant positions
- Exceptional customer service
- Memory retention
- Cleanliness standards
- Safe food handling
- Team collaboration
Certification
- Food Handlers Certificate
- Sexual Harassment Certificate
- Alcoholic Beverage Control Certificate
Languages
English
Native or Bilingual
Spanish
Native or Bilingual
Timeline
Server
The Derby
12.2024 - 01.2026
Bartender / Bar Back
Smitty’s Grill
01.2015 - 01.2017
Busser
Smitty’s Grill
01.2014 - 01.2015
Server
Smitty’s Grill
04.2013 - 11.2024
Associate of Applied Science -
Citrus College
High School Diploma -
Duarte High School