Nadine Sawalha
Mesa
Summary
Dynamic and personable craft bartender/server with over a decade of hospitality experience. Expert at driving sales, building guest relationships, and resolving challenges with professionalism. Recognized for leadership, adaptability, and creating innovative cocktails that elevate menus and boost revenue. Eager to bring creativity, passion, and proven results to enhance the Undertow experience.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
Work History
Craft Bartender
Vaca
08.2024 - 09.2025
- Crafted innovative cocktail recipes every 3 months for the menu utilizing fresh ingredients and seasonal flavors.
- Collaborated with culinary team to create pairings that complemented food menu offerings.
- Managed bar inventory, ensuring optimal stock levels and minimizing waste.
- Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
- Trained and mentored junior bartenders on mixology techniques and customer service standards.
- Developed unique presentation styles for cocktails to enhance guest experiences.
Craft Bartender
ROYAL HAWAIIAN
04.2024 - 09.2024
- Managed inventory control and reducing waste by controlling pours always using a jigger and batching cocktails.
- Exceeded revenue on slower nights by 30% through self-marketing and creating personal connections with guests to form regulars.
- Achieved a customer satisfaction rating of 95% through attentive and personalized service.
- Maintained a meticulous standard of cleanliness, passing health inspections with excellent marks consistently.
- Implemented streamlined workflow processes to improve service speed during peak hours without compromising quality.
- Resolved customer inquiries and complaints promptly, enhancing overall satisfaction and loyalty.
Server/Craft Bartender
VIAJE
01.2024 - 07.2024
- Excelled at being Bar Lead by innovating menu items and creating new craft cocktails to draw in higher sales.
- Executed daily menu presentation and shared distinguished knowledge on gourmet menu items.
- Achieved crafting over 900 signature cocktails nightly during dinner service, while maintaining a happy bar top.
- Trained junior bartenders, improving service efficiency and consistency across the team.
- Managed multiple tables efficiently, demonstrating strong multitasking abilities in high-pressure environments.
- Trained and mentored new staff on menu knowledge and service standards to enhance team performance.
Lead Bartender/Bar Manager
SILVER TRUMPET BAR AND RESTAURANT BY MARRIOTT
01.2022 - 12.2023
- Became Lead Bartender/Bar Manager in less than two months based from aptitude.
- Surpassed customer expectations and service on busy nights.
- Lead a bar training program how to craft unique cocktails based off customers palate.
Server/Craft Bartender
STRONG WATER
03.2022 - 09.2022
- Succeeded in world-class bar training program.
- Awarded top 10th bar in the U.S. on the West Coast by Tales of the Cocktail Foundation for providing extraordinary hospitality in 2022.
- Suggested cocktail and snack pairings to increase revenue and customer dining time.
- Trained to assess the needs of a customer before they ask and delivering excellence.
Server/Craft Bartender
THE CAULDRON
07.2018 - 09.2021
- Boosted restaurant's earnings by attaining the top seller role for three years.
- Ability to strive under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
- Developed advanced knowledge on wine pairings and alcohol.
Education
AA - Music
Fullerton College
Skills
- Team Management and Leadership
- Sociable and Personable
- Problem-solving
- Bilingual in English and Arabic
- Speed and efficiency
- Cocktail creation
- Spirit pairings
- Time management
- Listening skills
- Responsible alcohol service
Accomplishments
Published over 12 cocktails for the menu at Vaca, Costa Mesa.
Timeline
Craft Bartender
Vaca
08.2024 - 09.2025
Craft Bartender
ROYAL HAWAIIAN
04.2024 - 09.2024
Server/Craft Bartender
VIAJE
01.2024 - 07.2024
Server/Craft Bartender
STRONG WATER
03.2022 - 09.2022
Lead Bartender/Bar Manager
SILVER TRUMPET BAR AND RESTAURANT BY MARRIOTT
01.2022 - 12.2023
Server/Craft Bartender
THE CAULDRON
07.2018 - 09.2021
AA - Music
Fullerton College