RYAN TAYLOR
Bartender
Summary
Hardworking Bartender with experience in large-scale casual dining establishments. Committed to upholding highest standards of customer service and safe food handling practices. Well-versed mixologist with diverse menu of memorized drink recipes.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
2015
2015
years of post-secondary education
Work History
Event Bartender
Huntress Japanese Steakhouse
01.2025 - Current
- Deliver polished, high-energy service in a contemporary steakhouse setting, guiding guests through a menu that features premium dry-aged steaks, A5 Japanese Wagyu, seafood, shareable bites, and craft cocktails—welcoming both spontaneous bar diners and full-service celebrations.
- Support and promote weekly and seasonal events, such as all-day happy hours, date-night specials, whisky-flight tastings, private-dining menus in the Grand Pacific Room, and rooftop events in partnership with Lumi—ensuring smooth coordination and guest satisfaction.
- Collaborate with the events and beverage teams to upsell expertly from one of Southern California's largest collections of Japanese whiskies, plus curated wine, beer, and cocktail offerings—highlighting pairings and premium experiences.
- Maintain a premium guest experience across multiple spaces—including the main dining room, mezzanine, marble-bar lounge, and third-floor Grand Pacific Room—by ensuring polished setup, timely service, seamless transitions between areas, and attention to design-driven details like vintage lighting and a knife-wall aesthetic.
Barback, Bartender, Bar Lead
Margaritaville Hotel
03.2024 - 12.2024
- Hired as a barback in March and rapidly promoted to bartender within two weeks, showcasing adaptability and expertise in bar operations.
- Advanced to bar lead by July, demonstrating strong leadership and a proactive work ethic.
- Entrusted with keyholder status, responsible for opening and closing the bar, underscoring reliability and trustworthiness.
- Authorized to comp and void items for both bartenders and servers, highlighting accountability and decision-making authority.
- Developed efficient workflow management skills, ensuring seamless bar service in a high-energy, customer-centric environment.
- Contributed to an engaging guest experience with a focus on maintaining quality and satisfaction.
Bartender
Portofino
04.2016 - 03.2017
- Worked in a unique fine dining restaurant located on a small cruise ship, accommodating approximately 60 guests for dinner cruises on the Detroit River.
- Crafted and served a variety of cocktails, wine, and beverages, ensuring a memorable dining experience.
- Collaborated closely with the culinary team to coordinate beverage pairings with the menu.
- Maintained an upscale and professional appearance and demeanor while interacting with guests.
- Assisted with special events and private parties, delivering personalized service to meet guests' preferences.
Bartender
J. Gardella's Tavern
01.2013 - 02.2016
- Elevated to the role of bartender in January 2013, where I consistently drove high revenue.
- Demonstrated expertise in crafting a wide range of cocktails, shots, and drinks for a diverse clientele.
- Maintained a clean and well-organized bar, ensuring all supplies were readily available for service.
- Provided outstanding customer service by engaging with patrons, taking orders, and delivering exceptional beverages.
- Efficiently handled cash transactions and maintained an accurate cash drawer.
- Collaborated with fellow staff to create and promote drink specials and themed nights to boost sales.
Barback
J. Gardella's Tavern
06.2012 - 01.2013
- Worked in a fast-paced, high-volume college bar environment, ensuring smooth bar operations.
- Assisted bartenders by stocking and replenishing bar supplies, including alcohol, mixers, glassware, and garnishes.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of the bar area, including washing glassware and utensils.
- Provided excellent customer service by promptly serving water and clearing empty glasses from tables.
- Collaborated with bartenders to prepare and serve specialty cocktails, shots, and beverages.
- Managed crowd control and assisted with maintaining a safe and welcoming atmosphere.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Kinesiology
Grand Valley State University
Allendale, MISkills
- Alcohol Ordering
- Patron Rapport
- Attending Multiple Customers
- Patron Experiences
- Cleanliness and organization
- Strong communication skills
- Cash handling proficiency
- Team player attitude
- Reliable and punctual
Timeline
Event Bartender
Huntress Japanese Steakhouse
01.2025 - Current
Barback, Bartender, Bar Lead
Margaritaville Hotel
03.2024 - 12.2024
Bartender
Portofino
04.2016 - 03.2017
Bartender
J. Gardella's Tavern
01.2013 - 02.2016
Barback
J. Gardella's Tavern
06.2012 - 01.2013
Bachelor of Science - Kinesiology
Grand Valley State University
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