KOSTAS GKALIOS
Head Bartender & Business Owner
Palma
Summary
Experienced and creative Head Bartender with over 5 years in luxury hospitality and high-volume cocktail environments. Former Head Bartender at Torbar, Berlin, with strong expertise in craft cocktails, team leadership, bar operations, and premium guest experience. Entrepreneurial mindset as the owner of a successful coffee shop for the past three years, demonstrating business acumen, financial management, and team development.
Passionate about delivering refined, memorable beverage experiences aligned with luxury service standards. Natural leader who thrives in dynamic, high-end environments and consistently creates innovative cocktails while maintaining operational excellence.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
3
3
Languages
Work History
Coffee Shop Owner
NAKED
Thessaloniki, Greece
02.2023 - Current
- Founded and successfully managed a specialty coffee shop, overseeing full operations.
- Led, managed and trained a team of 15 people, ensuring high service standards and guest satisfaction.
- Managed inventory, supplier relationships, cost control, and monthly financial reporting.
- Developed seasonal beverage menus and signature drinks.
- Built strong guest relationships, increasing repeat business and brand reputation.
- Ensured full compliance with health & safety regulations.
Bar and Restaurant Manager
TorBar
09.2021 - 12.2022
- Led daily bar operations in a high-end Berlin cocktail venue.
- Created and developed innovative cocktail menus and seasonal drink concepts.
- Trained and supervised bartenders, ensuring consistency in preparation and presentation.
- Managed stock control, daily inventory checks, and monthly reporting.
- Handled guest complaints professionally, maintaining exceptional customer satisfaction.
- Organized internal cocktail competitions to foster creativity and team engagement.
- Maintained strong knowledge of premium spirits, wines, beers, and cigar service.
Key Account Manager
Meero
07.2019 - 04.2021
- Conducted regular account reviews with clients to assess performance, identify areas for improvement, and strategize future growth opportunities.
- Analyzed sales and customer data to identify trends and opportunities for increased profitability.
- Analyzed market trends, identifying opportunities for expanding product offerings within key accounts.
- Strengthened client relationships through regular communication and effective problemsolving.
Barista Trainer
O Coffee
01.2019 - 07.2020
- Trained new team members with positive reinforcement and respectful, encouraging coaching.
- Trained new employees in groups and in one-on-one scenarios.
- Learned new drinks and procedures first, and instructed all team members on how to properly complete each.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by providing high-quality espresso and coffee beverages.
Head Bartender
Michelangelo Hotel
04.2018 - 10.2018
- Delivered luxury beverage service in high-end, fast-paced environments.
- Prepared classic and signature cocktails according to international standards.
- Supported banqueting and private events, ensuring seamless service.
- Operated POS systems and handled cashiering responsibilities.
- Maintained mise en place and bar organization to optimize service flow.
- Ensured alignment with luxury hospitality service standards.
Skills
- Advanced Mixology & Creative Cocktail Development
- Leadership & Team Training
- Luxury Guest Experience & Service Excellence
- Inventory Management & Cost Control
- POS Systems & Cash Handling
- Banqueting & Private Event Bar Service
- Wine & Spirit Knowledge
- Health & Safety Compliance
- Complaint Handling & Guest Recovery
Timeline
Coffee Shop Owner
NAKED
02.2023 - Current
Bar and Restaurant Manager
TorBar
09.2021 - 12.2022
Key Account Manager
Meero
07.2019 - 04.2021
Barista Trainer
O Coffee
01.2019 - 07.2020
Head Bartender
Michelangelo Hotel
04.2018 - 10.2018