Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Languages
Websites
Timeline
Generic

Lauren Kusner

Highlands Ranch

Summary

Dynamic and highly skilled Fine Dining Server with over 3 years of experience delivering exceptional customer service in high-end restaurant environments. Expert in creating personalized dining experiences, ensuring customer satisfaction, and maintaining impeccable knowledge of food and wine pairings. Known for attention to detail, professionalism, and the ability to work efficiently in fast-paced, upscale settings. A passionate team player with excellent communication skills and a commitment to creating memorable experiences for guests.

Overview

2
2
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Server/ Opening Team Member

La Loma Restaurant
Parker
04.2025 - 05.2025
  • Assisted in restaurant pre-opening setup, including configuring server stations, beverage stations, and the expo line in collaboration with the front-of-house team.
  • Played a key role in establishing teamwork-based service standards versus independent service strategies to promote efficiency and guest satisfaction.
  • Trained and mentored new servers on menu knowledge, service standards, and company policies during the pre-opening phase without hands-on training resources.
  • Developed in-depth knowledge of an extensive tequila program, including varietals, production methods, and tasting profiles.
  • Consistently upsold premium tequila selections through informed recommendations and strategic guest engagement.
  • Delivered food and beverages efficiently without the use of trays or heat lamps, ensuring speed and quality in high-volume service.
  • Maintained high presentation standards by polishing crystal stemware and fine silverware daily.
  • Executed full table bussing and resetting duties with speed and attention to detail to support fast table turns.
  • Took initiative in both opening and closing responsibilities, including daily setup, end-of-day breakdown, and side work completion.
  • Delegated tasks effectively among team members to ensure smooth shift transitions and workload balance.
  • Uphold and reinforced a positive team culture and clear guest communication expectations throughout each shift.

Fine Dining and Cocktail Server

Perrys Steak House and Grill
Lone Tree
08.2024 - 04.2025
  • Taking Food and Drink orders
  • Cleaning and resetting tables
  • Extensive knowledge of wine and the quality of steaks and seafood.
  • Upselling Promotions and New Seasonal Menus
  • Closing and Opening Shift Procedures
  • TIPS Certified
  • Creating Regulars in the Bar Area
  • Efficiently and quickly gave the guests the best experience they intended for at Perry’s
  • Demonstrated extensive knowledge of menu items, ingredients, and preparation methods to make recommendations and answer guest inquiries.
  • Anticipated guest needs and proactively addressed any issues or concerns to ensure satisfaction.
  • Collaborated with kitchen staff and management to ensure seamless coordination of food and beverage service.
  • Maintained a polished and professional appearance at all times, adhering to restaurant grooming and uniform standards.
  • Upsold additional menu items, beverages, and special promotions to increase sales and enhance guest experience.

Banquet Server

Arrowhead Golf Club
Roxborough Park
01.2024 - 07.2024
  • Provided outstanding service to guests during weddings, corporate events, and other banquet functions, ensuring a memorable experience for all attendees.
  • Set up banquet rooms according to event specifications, including table settings, linens, and decorations, to create an inviting atmosphere.
  • Efficiently served plated meals, buffets, and beverages to guests, adhering to established service standards and protocols.
  • Worked closely with kitchen and catering staff to coordinate the timing and execution of food service, ensuring seamless delivery to guests.
  • Maintained cleanliness and organization of dining areas, including tables, chairs, and service stations, to uphold high standards of cleanliness and presentation.

Fine Dining Server

Castle Pines Country Club
Castle Pines
08.2023 - 05.2024
  • Provided impeccable table service to guests in a high-end dining environment, ensuring a memorable dining experience.
  • Demonstrated extensive knowledge of menu items, ingredients, and preparation methods to make recommendations and answer guest inquiries.
  • Anticipated guest needs and proactively addressed any issues or concerns to ensure satisfaction.
  • Collaborated with kitchen staff and management to ensure seamless coordination of food and beverage service.
  • Maintained a polished and professional appearance at all times, adhering to restaurant grooming and uniform standards.
  • Upsold additional menu items, beverages, and special promotions to increase sales and enhance guest experience.
  • Created relationships with members, recognizing over 800 regulars by name.
  • Handled cash and credit card transactions accurately and efficiently, processing payments and issuing receipts.
  • Introduced members to exceptional food and beverage pairings.
  • Attended a Sommelier wine training that expanded my palate and knowledge.
  • Completed additional side tasks to prepare and maintain the restaurant.
  • Additional experience in the positions server assistant, host, reception, and bartending.

Assistant Manager

Country Club at Castle Pines
Castle Pines
03.2023 - 05.2024
  • Company Overview: (ASV Pool and Recreations)
  • Cleaning out the abandoned Kitchen and Bar
  • Setting up the Bar and Kitchen
  • Creating a Cocktail Menu
  • Assisted in creating a Food Menu
  • Training Servers
  • Training Food Runners
  • Training Bartenders
  • Setting up a Floor Map of the Pool Area (floor) and creating a Table System
  • Overseeing Operations
  • Communication between Members' needs and the Company’s Supply
  • Liquor Inventory and sales
  • Setting up and managing events and parties for members
  • Surveying all Members on their experience at ASV
  • Problem Solving with Customer Feedback
  • Serving
  • Bartending
  • Creating and setting up the Expo in the Kitchen, running the Expo, Training Food Runners to run the Expo
  • Recording Tip Share
  • Recording Server Check Outs
  • Service management
  • Trained and mentored a team of 12 staff members, fostering a positive work environment and improving employee retention.
  • Scheduling Servers, Bartenders, and Food Runners
  • Managed front-of-house operations during peak hours, enhancing customer flow and service efficiency.
  • Resolved customer complaints promptly and professionally, maintaining high satisfaction levels.
  • Collaborated with kitchen staff to ensure timely food preparation and service.

Education

High School Diploma -

Ponderosa Highschool
Parker Colorado
05-2024

Skills

  • Customer Service and Complaint Recovery
  • Fine dining etiquette
  • Extensive wine and liquor knowledge
  • Upselling techniques
  • Customer relationship management
  • Event setup
  • Effective communication
  • Attention to detail
  • Training and mentoring
  • Cleaning and organization
  • Problem solving
  • Daily specials memorization
  • Task prioritization
  • Professional appearance
  • Recurring clientele
  • Allergy awareness

Certification

  • TIPS CERTIFICATION AUG 2024

Languages

English
Native/ Bilingual
Spanish
Professional

Timeline

Server/ Opening Team Member

La Loma Restaurant
04.2025 - 05.2025

Fine Dining and Cocktail Server

Perrys Steak House and Grill
08.2024 - 04.2025

Banquet Server

Arrowhead Golf Club
01.2024 - 07.2024

Fine Dining Server

Castle Pines Country Club
08.2023 - 05.2024

Assistant Manager

Country Club at Castle Pines
03.2023 - 05.2024

High School Diploma -

Ponderosa Highschool

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Lauren Kusner