Michael Tsai

Results-driven hospitality and F&B executive with deep expertise across restaurant operations, brand development, experiential activations, and multi-unit management. Proven ability to launch and scale concepts from the ground up — from quick-service franchises to fine dining and large-format pop-up experiences — in both U.S. and international markets (China). Multilingual leader (English, Mandarin, Taiwanese, Spanish BOH) with a strong track record of revenue growth, team building, and operational excellence.

Experienced working with major brand partnerships, licensing, and high-volume events.

General Manager - Artisynx - Los Angeles, CA

(2025-01)

• Launched and operate a 7,000 sq. ft. experiential activation space, executing multi-week campaigns for major K-pop artists including BTS, ENHYPEN, ROSÉ, BLACKPINK, and ATEEZ.
• Deliver $125K+ in revenue per 3-week activation cycle through ticketing, merchandise sales, and brand partnerships; own full P&L and activation strategy end-to-end.
• Concurrently launched a pop-up retail shop (anime, gaming, collectibles), achieving 70% profit margins through disciplined cost control and lean vendor sourcing.
• Manage overhead, buildout costs, vendor negotiations, and staffing models to maximize profitability while maintaining a consistent, premium brand experience.

Restaurant Opening Manager - SUGO Social - Los Angeles, CA

(2024-01 - 2024-12)

• Led full front-of-house opening: bar program, menu rollout, staff onboarding and training, service standards, and SOP development.
• Collaborated with Executive Chef on food program design and implementation; supported ownership in securing health department and ABC licenses.

Director of Operations, Events & Marketing - Slowboat Brewery Restaurant Group & Las Musas Mexican Restaurant & Bar

(2020-01 - 2023-12)

• Oversaw operations across 5 locations with 200+ employees, generating average annual sales exceeding $1.75M per location.
• Led marketing initiatives that drove 60% growth in social media engagement and increased overall brand visibility.
• Designed and launched a paid members-only loyalty program, resulting in a 40% increase in member spending within the first six months.

Co-Founder - SMASH Destructo-therapy Room - China

(2018-01 - 2020-12)

• Co-founded the first destructo-therapy concept in China; successfully franchised across 6 cities, establishing brand standards and operational frameworks for each location.

Founder - Taco Stop - China

(2018-01 - 2021-12)

• Founded and operated three fast-service franchise locations, pioneering co-op business models in an emerging F&B market.

Co-Founder & Operator - Palms L.A. Kitchen & Bar - China

(2013-01 - 2019-12)

• Introduced modern Mexican-Korean fusion cuisine to China; achieved high EBIT margins and earned extensive, sustained media coverage across both locations.

F&B Manager - Hilton Beijing Sanyuanqiao

(2011-01 - 2013-12)

• Oversaw multiple food and beverage outlets including a fine dining restaurant, lobby bar, cocktail bar, and ADD restaurant; maintained high customer satisfaction and Hilton brand standards.

B.A. - Food & Beverage Management - Johnson & Wales University

A.A. - Restaurant Management - Johnson & Wales University

Certificate - International Food & Beverage Management - Spermalie Hospitality School