Zariah McKee
Syracuse
Summary
Dynamic hospitality professional prepared for this role with extensive experience in high-volume environments, excelling under pressure while delivering exceptional service. Recognized for adaptability to evolving needs, complemented by expertise in mixology, menu creation, and effective leadership. Committed to fostering teamwork and driving efficiency, consistently achieving high-quality results that enhance guest satisfaction and operational success. Passionate about creating memorable experiences that elevate brand reputation and customer loyalty.
Overview
2026
2026
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Bartender
Emerald Cocktail Kitchen
08.2024 - Current
- Expertly crafted and served a diverse range of cocktails, including house specialties, classics, and seasonal drinks, ensuring top-tier quality and presentation.
- Elevated guest experiences through personalized food and beverage recommendations, and by cultivating a welcoming, engaging environment.
- Supported overall bar operations by overseeing opening/closing procedures, assisting with high-volume service, and event bartending.
- Maintained impeccable cleanliness and organization behind the bar. Ensured precise measurements and garnishes to uphold the highest quality standards.
- Boosted bar revenue through strategic upselling techniques and the introduction of popular seasonal drink specials, contributing to overall business growth.
- Created signature cocktails using innovative techniques and high-quality ingredients.
Bartender
Harpoon Eddies
- Mix and serve high-volume beverages efficiently during peak service times.
- Managed cash transactions accurately, ensuring proper handling of payments and tips.
- Streamlined drink preparation processes for faster service during peak hours.
- Balanced multiple tasks simultaneously without compromising quality or customer satisfaction in a fast-paced setting.
- Kept bar stocked with liquors, juices and garnishes for drinks.
- Reduced wait times for drinks by efficiently managing the bar area and prioritizing orders.
- Handled simultaneous customer, team, and business needs while avoiding unnecessary delays or errors.
Lead Bartender
The Craftsman Wood Grille & Tap House
03.2021 - Current
- Developed and curated a wide range of cocktail menus, including specialty, spirit-free, low-ABV, happy hour, and specialty event menus, blending both classic and original recipes.
- Analyzed sales trends and customer feedback to continuously enhance the cocktail menu and optimize service strategies.
- Delivered exceptional guest experiences by providing personalized service and consistently crafting high-quality cocktails.
- Led bar operations, including training new staff, managing inventory, sourcing new products, creating staff schedules, and overseeing daily bar functions.
- Created comprehensive training materials and streamlined operational procedures to enhance team performance and shift efficiency.
- Ensured consistency in drink preparation and presentation, adhering to recipes and quality standards while introducing new offerings.
- Collaborated with management to plan and execute special events, promotions, and seasonal offerings, effectively driving sales and enhancing customer engagement.
- Thrived in fast-paced, high-energy environments, fueled by a passion for mixology, innovation, and guest satisfaction.
Server/ Bartender
Buffalo Wild Wings
07.2018 - 02.2021
- Delivered exceptional customer service in fast-paced environment, ensuring guest satisfaction and fostering repeat business.
- Transitioned between server and bartender roles, supporting team members during peak hours to ensure smooth restaurant operations.
- Completed bartender training through Inspire Brands and hold active certification from the New York State Liquor Authority.
- Mentored new servers on menu items and service techniques, improving team efficiency and knowledge retention.
- Managed cash register operations, processing payments accurately while maintaining a balanced cash drawer.
- Upsold menu items effectively, contributing to increased average ticket sales through strategic recommendations.
Key Holder
Train Hard Fitness
03.2017 - 09.2018
- Greeted and assisted gym members, ensuring a positive first impression.
- Created membership accounts and efficiently checked in customers.
- Managed cash and credit transactions, collected outstanding payments, and ensured accurate financial records.
- Responded to phone inquiries promptly and professionally, providing information and assistance to members.
- Ensured a clean and safe environment by conducting regular cleaning of gym facilities and equipment.
- Prepared and served smoothies and sandwiches, while managing inventory and stocking.
- Oversaw opening and closing procedures, ensuring smooth operations and compliance with all facility rules and regulations.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
Suny Oneonta
Oneonta, NY12.2020
Skills
- Adaptability
- Advanced Mixology
- Attention to Detail
- Cash Handling
- Clear and effective communication
- Cocktail Menu Development
- Cocktail Presentation
- Conflict Resolution
- Creativity
- Customer Retention
- Customer service
- High-Volume Service
- Inventory Management
- Leadership
- Operational Efficiency
- Problem Solving
- Strong multitasking
- Training Development
- Time Management
- Trend Analysis
- Quality Control
Certification
- Alcohol Awareness Training at New York State Liquor Authority (2020-01 - Present)
- Alcohol Training at ServSafe (2024-09 - Present)
Timeline
Bartender
Emerald Cocktail Kitchen
08.2024 - Current
Lead Bartender
The Craftsman Wood Grille & Tap House
03.2021 - Current
Server/ Bartender
Buffalo Wild Wings
07.2018 - 02.2021
Key Holder
Train Hard Fitness
03.2017 - 09.2018
Bartender
Harpoon Eddies
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
Suny Oneonta
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