Life is nothing but an exquisitely blended cocktail of experiences that we earn through our personal and professional interactions !
Yash Dangle, our next pathbreaker, Bar Supervisor at Food Matters Group (Mumbai), creates memorable experiences for customers through exceptional service, creative cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Yash talks to Shyam Krishnamurthy from The Interview Portal about one of the key turning points in his career when he chose hotel management which was the decision that kickstarted his jouney in hospitality.
For students, pursue what you love, even if it differs from traditional expectations. Stay Resilient, understand that challenges will arise; persistence is key to success.
Yash, can you explain your background to our young readers?
I come from a middle-class family where my parents, especially my father, dreamed of me becoming an engineer or an IPS officer. However, since school, I have had a passion for acting and cooking. Realizing that pursuing acting as a career came with limited chances of success, I decided to focus on hotel management. I convinced my dad that I would excel in this field, and he supported my choice. During the three-year course, like many students, I initially aimed to become a chef, but over time, I discovered a stronger interest in bartending and mixology, which became my career focus after graduation.
What did you do for graduation/post graduation?
I did a bachelor’s degree in Hospitality and Tourism Studies from D.Y Patil university Nerul, Navi mumbai.
What were some of the key influences that led you to such an offbeat, unconventional, and uncommon career in Bartending/Mixology?
Realizing that acting wasn’t viable pushed me towards a more practical career choice.
I wanted a career that tapped into my creative side, something that blends my cooking and acting passions; allows artistry and performance.
I found my Interest in Mixology during my degree in hotel management; I loved the creativity in crafting unique cocktails., connecting with people, engaging with guests, sharing stories and building a community. This is a career with challenges and requires innovation, staying current with trends and creating new drinks, as well as mastering specialized skills and showcasing craftsmanship.
My college professors sparked my interest in mixology. Senior Bartenders guided me in my early career. I admire Industry Leaders like David Wondrich.
There were several chefs who inspired my approach to flavours, and peers that I’ve collaborated with and learned from. Most importantly, my family members supported my path
One of the key turning points was choosing Hotel Management which was the decision that started my journey into hospitality. This led to discovering Mixology in college after which I shifted my focus from cooking to bartending.
During my 1st Bar Job, I gained hands-on experience and learned from senior bartenders. I was creating new cocktail menus which gave me opportunities to innovate and showcase my creativity. I also networked at industry events and connected with peers and mentors in the field.
Recognition of my work, positive feedback and acknowledgment reinforced my career choice.
How did you plan the steps to get into the career you wanted? Tell us about your career path
I started as an Intern at JW Marriott Juhu.
Here, I gained practical experience across various hospitality functions, from guest services to event management. I also developed essential skills such as customer relationship management, teamwork, problem-solving and industry knowledge.
My next job was as Bartender/Mixologist at Sofitel Mumbai BKC FnB associates .
Mixology is all about mastering the art of mixing cocktails, understanding flavor profiles, and creating signature drinks.
Customer Service is another aspect – Developing the ability to engage with customers, anticipating their needs, and providing attentive service to ensure a positive experience.
In May 2023, I joined as Bartender at Food matters Pvt Ltd.
My Roles and Responsibilities are:
1. Mastering bartending skills and providing exemplary customer service.
2. Training new staff and assisting with scheduling.
3. Implementing operational improvements, enforcing standards, and supporting management decisions.
I am currently working at Food Matters Pvt Ltd. where I oversee and coordinate the work of bar staff, including bartenders, servers, and support staff, to ensure efficient operations and excellent customer service.
I also manage inventory levels and monitor stocks to prevent shortages and minimize waste, ensuring the availability of ingredients for drinks and beverages.
How did you get your first break?
I got my first break as an intern through college.
After that, I got a FT job through the reference of my friend who was working with Sofitel BKC.
Then it was all through contacts made in the industry and through friends.
What were some of the challenges you faced? How did you address them?
Balancing Creativity with Demand: Creating innovative cocktails while ensuring they cater to customer tastes.
Managing High-Pressure Environments: Handling busy shifts and maintaining quality under stress.
Staying Updated: Keeping up with industry trends and continuously learning new techniques.
Where do you work now?
I work as Bar Supervisor with Food Matters Pvt Ltd. at their restaurant in Bandra Mag St.
What problems do you solve?
In addition to managing bar staff and managing inventory, I also interact with customers, addressing their needs and concerns, ensuring a positive experience, and handling any issues or complaints promptly and professionally.
I am also involved in ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations, responsible alcohol service practices, and other legal requirements, maintaining a safe and welcoming environment for both customers and staff.
What skills are needed in your role? How did you acquire the skills?
• Creativity: Blending unique flavors and techniques.
• Attention to Detail: Precision in ingredients and presentation.
• Guest Experience: Prioritizing interaction and a welcoming atmosphere.
• Continuous Learning: Staying updated with industry trends.
• Adaptability: Adjusting to guest preferences and feedback.
• Storytelling: Adding narratives to cocktails for a personal touch.
Skills Needed for Bartending:
1. Mixology Knowledge: Understanding cocktails and techniques.
2. Customer Service: Engaging and satisfying guests.
3. Attention to Detail: Precision in measurements and presentation.
4. Time Management: Multitasking during busy shifts.
5. Creativity: Innovating new drinks.
6. Problem-Solving: Handling unexpected situations.
How I Acquired These Skills:
• Education: Studied mixology in hotel management.
• Experience: Gained hands-on skills at my first bar job.
• Learning: Attended workshops and industry events.
• Feedback: Sought input from peers and customers.
• Practice: Regularly experimented with recipes.
What’s a typical day like?
• Preparation: Arriving early to set up the bar, stock supplies and prepare garnishes.
• Pre-Shift Briefing: Meeting with the team to discuss specials and any important updates.
• Service: Taking orders, mixing drinks, and providing excellent customer service during busy hours.
• Guest Interaction: Engaging with patrons, sharing cocktail recommendations, and creating a welcoming atmosphere.
• Cleaning and Maintenance: Keeping the bar area tidy, washing glassware, and restocking as needed throughout the shift.
• Post-Shift Duties: Completing closing tasks, cleaning the bar, and preparing for the next day’s service.
What is it you love about this job?
• Creativity: The ability to craft unique cocktails and experiment with flavours.
• Social Interaction: Engaging with diverse guests and building connections.
• Dynamic Environment: The fast-paced atmosphere keeps every day exciting.
• Problem-Solving: Addressing challenges and finding solutions on the spot.
• Customer Satisfaction: The joy of making guests happy with great service and drinks.
• Continuous Learning: Opportunities to grow my skills and stay updated on trends.
How does your work benefit society?
• Building Community: Creating social spaces for connections.
• Cultural Exchange: Introducing diverse cocktails and traditions.
• Job Creation: Contributing to employment in the hospitality industry.
• Promoting Responsibility: Encouraging responsible drinking habits.
• Supporting Local Economy: Sourcing ingredients from local producers.
• Enhancing Engagement: Hosting events that bring people together.
Tell us an example of a specific memorable work you did that is very close to you!
A memorable moment for me was during my first few weeks as a bartender when I crafted my very first signature cocktail. I wanted to create something special, so I experimented with different flavors and ended up making a refreshing citrus drink with a unique twist.
When I served it to guests and saw their smiles and heard their compliments, it was incredibly rewarding. That experience solidified my passion for bartending and showed me the joy of creating drinks that make people happy.
Your advice to students based on your experience?
Follow Your Passion: Pursue what you love, even if it differs from traditional expectations.
Stay Curious: Keep learning and exploring new techniques and trends in the industry. Gain Hands-On Experience:
Seek internships or part-time jobs to build practical skills.
Network: Build connections with peers, mentors, and industry professionals.
Embrace Feedback: Be open to constructive criticism to improve your craft.
Stay Resilient: Understand that challenges will arise; persistence is key to success.
Future Plans?
• Advancing Skills: Continuing to learn and refine my mixology and bartending techniques.
• Creative Development: Experimenting with new cocktail recipes and concepts.
• Career Growth: Aiming for leadership roles, such as bar manager.
• Industry Involvement: Participating in bartending competitions and networking events.
• Education: Considering further certifications in mixology or beverage management.
• Entrepreneurship: Exploring the possibility of starting my own bar or cocktail consultancy in the future.