Tom Widdows

I have been bartending for two years at Hope Street Hotel. Working on the events team, I take pride in speed and consistency when preparing drinks for guests. The fast-paced nature of weddings has taught me the importance of keeping our bar clean and tidy at all times, both for keeping up appearances and for efficiency while working. I have developed my cocktail knowledge in this time; I am confident with all the classic cocktails and am constantly expanding my repertoire in my spare time. 

Bartender at Hope Street Hotel - events team. Two years experience.

• Greet customers with open & welcoming body language.
• Continuously recall & make drinks orders and take payments correctly on fast-paced event bars. I have learnt the specification of various classic cocktails such as an Espresso Martini, Aperol Spritz, Negroni, Old Fashioned, Gin Martini, etc.
• Offer wine & food pairing suggestions to enhance customer satisfaction and maximise wine sales.
• Sustain a positive bar environment through friendly, professional service and appropriate handling of customer concerns.
• Receive customer phone calls with a polite phone manner and cater to their reservation needs simultaneously using the ResDiary application.
• Reset function rooms efficiently, carrying chairs, tables, lecterns, etc. to and from storage cupboards, and relaying tables for the next event.
• Constantly monitor tables or conference rooms for tea/coffee/water top-ups.
• Keep bar and drink displays clean and organised by conducting regular deep cleans.
• Maintain facility compliance with health codes, sanitation requirements and license regulations.
• Consult with customers to determine drink and taste preferences, making appropriate recommendations to guarantee customer satisfaction.
• Conduct ID checks in line with Challenge 25 rules and regulations.
• Restock fridges with beers/soft drinks during and after a function to prevent running low on stock. Check stock levels before events start.
• Efficiently complete open and closing checklists.
• Learn menu items and any allergens involved to avoid having to consult the chef over any queries.
• Clean glass wash weekly to prevent buildup of muck and maintain its efficiency.

Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering from University of Manchester - Pass.

Three A's at A-level - The Liverpool Blue Coat School