Michael Zikhali
Restaurant Manager
Johannesburg
Summary
Dynamic and results-driven professional with extensive experience in hospitality, notably at Protea Hotel Fire And Ice. Proven ability in enhancing guest satisfaction through exceptional service and effective complaint handling. Skilled in order taking and wine pairing, consistently contributing to increased sales and positive customer feedback.
Overview
2026
2026
years of professional experience
Work History
Hotel Waiter
Protea Hotel Fire And Ice, Melrose Arch
- Addressed customer concerns promptly and professionally, resolving issues effectively to maintain positive relationships with patrons.
- Maintained clean and organized table settings, ensuring a comfortable and inviting atmosphere for guests.
- Enhanced guest satisfaction by providing exceptional dining experiences through attentive service and timely delivery of orders.
- Coordinated with banquet staff during events to ensure seamless execution of service plans for large groups of attendees.
- Collaborated with kitchen staff to accommodate special dietary requests, resulting in positive guest feedback.
- Promoted upselling efforts by highlighting daily specials and suggesting complementary menu items, contributing to an increase in overall sales.
- Participated in regular staff meetings to discuss ways of improving overall hotel services, fostering a culture of continuous improvement among colleagues.
Restaurant Manager
Bothongo Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve, Neck and Deck Restaurant
04.2018 - Current
- Managed daily operations to ensure a high level of efficiency, consistency, and quality in both food and service.
- Correctly calculated inventory and ordered appropriate supplies.
- Met, greeted, and encouraged feedback from customers and used feedback to implement positive changes within restaurant.
- Tracked daily sales transactions and invoices for accurate and updated financial reporting.
- Monitored inventory of supplies and purchased orders to maintain adequate stock levels.
- Increased restaurant revenue by optimizing table turnover rates and enhancing menu offerings.
- Improved overall customer satisfaction by implementing new service standards and staff training programs.
- Enhanced guest experience by regularly reviewing feedback and implementing necessary improvements.
Hotel Waiter
African Pride Hotel, Melrose Arch
03.2014 - 06.2015
- Effectively managed multiple tasks simultaneously, such as taking orders, delivering food, and processing payments, resulting in efficient service and minimal delays for guests.
- Developed strong rapport with customers, leading to increased repeat business and personal recommendations.
- Handled high-pressure situations during peak hours while maintaining professional demeanor and prioritizing guest needs.
- Contributed to the hotel''s reputation for excellent service by consistently receiving positive reviews from satisfied customers.
- Answered detailed questions about menu items, contents and preparation methods to help guests make informed decisions.
- Verified accuracy and quality of orders before delivery.
- Kept work environments, equipment and trays clean and sanitized for guests.
- Offered knowledgeable suggestions about foods and related wine pairings to guests with discerning tastes.
- Used downtime to get ahead of support work such as folding napkins, wrapping silverware and polishing glasses.
- Shared knowledge of menu items and flavors, enabling customers to make personal decisions based on taste and interest.
- Maintained clean and safe work environment.
- Served meals to customers according to established guidelines.
- Refilled beverage glasses, cleared and reset tables, and stocked service areas.
- Processed customer payments to accurately record transactions.
- Arranged food, utensils and condiments on trays to serve meals with necessary items.
Education
High School Diploma -
Sizane High School
Bulawayo Zimbabwe Skills
Order taking
Table setting
Food presentation
Personal grooming
Allergy awareness
Cleanliness
Wine pairing
Multi-tasking skills
Guest service
Phone etiquette
Complaint handling
Professional attitude
Timeline
Restaurant Manager
Bothongo Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve, Neck and Deck Restaurant
04.2018 - Current
Hotel Waiter
African Pride Hotel, Melrose Arch
03.2014 - 06.2015
Hotel Waiter
Protea Hotel Fire And Ice, Melrose Arch
High School Diploma -
Sizane High School