Kayla Porterfield

Experienced in high-volume and upscale dining environments with over three years of hands-on restaurant experience. Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment. Skilled in guest interaction, upselling, and maintaining smooth service. Cross-trained as a hostess, server, food runner, expo, busser, and barback. Proficient in various POS systems, including Toast, Heartland, and OpenTable.

Hostess / Food Runner / Expo / Busser - Grille 620 - Ellicott City, MD

(2023-12)

• Primarily assisted as a hostess in an upscale steakhouse, providing a polished and welcoming first impression for guests
• Cross-trained and regularly picked up shifts as a food runner, expo, and busser to support service during high-volume periods
• Assisted servers and bartenders to ensure smooth service flow and timely food delivery
• Managed reservations and seating using OpenTable, addressing any issues that may arise and proactively taking action to correct them
• Worked efficiently in high-pressure environments while balancing multiple responsibilities
• Prioritized customer satisfaction in order to uphold the restaurant's respected reputation within the community.

Server / Hostess / Food Runner - Konstantine's Greek Taverna - Highland, MD

(2021-12 - 2023-12)

• Began as a hostess and advanced into serving and food running responsibilities at a young age
• Provided attentive table service, took orders accurately, and delivered food efficiently
• Supported bussers and bartenders with side work, drink running, and table maintenance
• Utilized strong sales skills to recommend menu items and upsell food and beverages
• Built rapport with guests to create a warm, welcoming dining experience

Bachelor of Arts - International Relations - Manhattan University (2029-05)

Minor - Political Science - Manhattan University (2029-05)

High School Diploma - Glenelg High School (2025-05)