I began my career in casual dining chain restaurants. I realized quickly that to really progress in the hospitality industry, I needed to seek out challenging environments that would enhance my skills and knowledge. While working in some of New York City’s best fine dining establishments, including The Modern and Gordon Ramsey, I became mesmerized by the world of wine. I would devour a wine list and learn as much as I could about producers and regions. Although she had a passion for wine, it always took a backseat to creating cocktails- something about the bar always drew my attention.

After moving to San Francisco, I found the endless bounty of seasonal fruit and vegetables an excellent base for restaurant cocktails. Being a great food lover, I would go to farmer’s markets every week with Chef friends to emulate the complex combination I found in my favorite dishes. Through various competitions like Espolon Bar Fight and Punch Kings, I learned to combine some off-the-wall ingredients. For a restaurant, it is important to use a bit of restraint and finesse. My general motto: “A bar program must include something for everyone. It must have interesting components while keeping the focus on making it approachable for guests.”

In The Bay Area, I have set out to work with the best the industry has to offer, bartending and serving at Delarosa, Spruce, Rich Table, Prospect and Alexander’s Steakhouse. I went on to run beverage programs at The Hotel Vitale and Foreign Cinema, Nico, and The Battery. Using everything I have learned from living on both coasts, combined with the wonderful restaurants and bars I have had the opportunity to work for and my own personal work ethic, I strive to make beverage programs that are focused, memorable, and hospitable. Currently, Bar Operations Specialist at Samson & Surrey/Heaven Hill

Accomplishments and Accolades

-2018 Saucey Award winner for Beverage Professional of the Year
-Winner of H by Hine Cocktail competition
-San Francisco Chronicle 2018 Bay Area Bar Stars
-Winner of San Francisco Punch Kings for Cochon 555
-Former Board of Directors for the Bay Area United States Bartender's Guild
-Brandy, Rum & Whiskey Steward for the American Distilling Institute Competition
-Lead Steward, NOLA Spirits Comp
-Judge, San Francisco World Spirits Competition