Loading…
Audience: Bartender clear filter
arrow_back View All Dates
Monday, March 24
 

9:00am PDT

WS3 The Business of Beverage: Operational Essentials for Success
Monday March 24, 2025 9:00am - 12:00pm PDT
In this workshop, participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of key strategies for managing beverage operations. From mastering cocktail pricing and controlling labor costs to navigating the complexities of single-unit versus multi-location bars, this session will provide the tools needed to streamline operations and drive growth. Participants will also learn how to create effective Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), analyze market trends, and build strategic partnerships to strengthen their brand.
What participants can expect to learn:
  • Pricing cocktails and managing labor costs effectively
  • Handling operations for single versus multi-location bars
  • Developing SOPs to streamline processes
  • Understanding market demands and customer preferences
  • Forming smart partnerships for business growth

**SESSION AVAILABLE ONLY WITH DELUXE PASS**
Speakers
avatar for Amy Racine

Amy Racine

Beverage Director, JF Restaurants
Amy Racine is Beverage Director and Partner of JF Restaurants (JFR), Michelin-starred Chef John Fraser’s New York City-based, full-service hospitality group that operates creative F&B concepts across America. She is responsible for leading cocktail creation, curating unique wine... Read More →
Monday March 24, 2025 9:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room #222
  Workshop

9:00am PDT

WS4 Mastering Bar & Restaurant Accounting for Operational Success
Monday March 24, 2025 9:00am - 12:00pm PDT
You’ve done the hard work, opened your business, and successfully promoted it and the sales are coming in.  But how do you make it profitable?  This seminar will take a deep dive into basic and advanced restaurant accounting helping to ensure you run a profitable business.  Participants will learn the art of calculating, controlling, recording, and profiting from the numbers that every successful operation needs to know.  The purpose of this seminar will be to familiarize operators not only with the three most important costs affecting an operation (the Prime Numbers: Food Cost, Labor Cost, and Beverage Cost) but also with the entire P & L statement, balance sheets, and budgeting.  All operators know (or should know) the importance of these numbers, yet few understand how to derive them accurately, let alone interpret them and put them to use.  With this knowledge, participants will unlock the profit potential within their operations.  This will be an intensive, hands-on, in-depth seminar in which participants will learn to:
  • Budget the Prime numbers, both for start-ups and established operations, as well as techniques for easily adhering to these budgets
  • Accurately calculate food, beverage, and labor costs (including advance formulae for detecting, budgeting, and pricing for waste)
  • Create, analyze, and interpret a P&L and Balance Sheet
  • Create annual and declining budgets
  • How to define controllable figures
  • Deliver consistent profitability through properly budgeted and managed Prime Numbers
There will be numerous hand-outs from which the attendees can follow along. Interactive Q&A throughout the seminar will be encouraged. Participants will engage in real-time problem-solving and be guided through a step-by-step process in which they will learn the topic easily.
Seminar participants will be fully prepared to utilize the information learned upon leaving the seminar, being able to action their knowledge at their own establishments immediately.

**SESSION AVAILABLE ONLY WITH DELUXE PASS**
Speakers
avatar for Kenneth Kneif

Kenneth Kneif

Managing Director, Hospitality Resource Group
Kenneth has accumulated more than 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry, stemming from his passion for cooking as a child. He has operated a successful hospitality and management consulting company, Hospitality Resource Group, for the past 15 years. Kenneth's expertise... Read More →
Monday March 24, 2025 9:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room #231/232
  Workshop

10:00am PDT

Mastering Hospitality Marketing: Inside Wynn Nightlife’s Playbook
Monday March 24, 2025 10:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Exclusive Add-On Experience During Registration, transportation included
Bus departs 9:30am from Main Entrance, LVCC
Arrives back to LVCC by 12:30pm

Get an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at how Wynn Nightlife builds and markets one of the most successful nightlife brands in Las Vegas. Whether you run a bar, restaurant, or hospitality venue, this masterclass will show you how branding, digital marketing, and data-driven strategies can transform your business and help you stand out in a competitive market. 

What You'll Learn: 
  • How to position your brand for success in a crowded market 
  • Insider marketing strategies from one of the most recognized nightlife brands in the world 
  • How to use data to drive customer engagement & loyalty 
  • Behind-the-scenes look at a major campaign launch from concept to execution 
  • Emerging trends & challenges in hospitality marketing 

EXPERIENCE BREAKDOWN 
  • Welcome with Wynn Nightlife visuals & brand history 
  • Complimentary drinks & exclusive Wynn Nightlife gift bag 
Masterclass at Intrigue Nightclub (10:30 AM - 12:00 PM) 
  • The Evolution of Hospitality Marketing – How consumer behavior and digital trends have changed marketing 
  • Branding & Storytelling – How Wynn Nightlife creates a premium experience through strategic marketing 
  • Social Media & Digital Influence – How to leverage influencers, content, and targeted ads for maximum reach 
  • Behind-the-Scenes of a Residency Campaign – Step-by-step breakdown of launching a high-profile entertainment event 
  • Data-Driven Decision Making – How to measure success and optimize your marketing strategies 
  • Q&A with Emilio Gonzales – Interactive discussion to answer your biggest marketing challenges 
Departure (12:00 PM) 
Speakers
avatar for Emilio Gonzales

Emilio Gonzales

Executive Marketing Director, Wynn Nightlife
Monday March 24, 2025 10:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Intrigue Nightclub, Wynn Las Vegas

10:00am PDT

SOLD OUT! Wynn Restaurant Back of House Tour
Monday March 24, 2025 10:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Limited capacity & transportation is provided! Additional registration add-on item and fees apply to attend. Add to any registration pass.

This is a “can’t miss opportunity” for owners and operators to get a behind-the-scenes look at some of Vegas’ most acclaimed venues. Visit several of the world’s leading restaurants inside Wynn during this expansive tour and get an insider’s look at the operations from reservations and seating process, to food and beverage offerings and strategy, to staffing, training and more. You’re sure to leave with insights and inspiration to bring back to your operation!

Tour will cover
  1. Delilah
  2. Wing Lei
  3. Mizumi
Bus Schedule:
9:30am - Bus departs from Las Vegas Convention Center to Wynn
10:00am-12:00pm –Wynn Restaurant Tour
12:15pm - Bus arrives back at Las Vegas Convention Center
Monday March 24, 2025 10:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Wynn Las Vegas

11:00am PDT

Mixology Training I: Break Away from the Mainstream Cocktail Trends, Go for Iconic!
Monday March 24, 2025 11:00am - 1:00pm PDT
Limited capacity & transportation is provided! Additional registration add-on item and fees apply to attend. Add to any registration pass.

In recent years, many bars have embraced trends such as high-end glassware, craft ice, homemade ingredients, and elaborate garnishes. However, some of the world's most iconic bars have achieved lasting success without adhering to these mainstream practices. This masterclass will explore how to establish your own timeless trends, ensuring your bar remains distinctive and memorable for years to come.

Key Takeaways:
  1. Understand the limitations of following mainstream cocktail trends.
  2. Discover strategies to develop unique and enduring bar concepts.
  3. Learn from case studies of iconic bars that have set their own standards.
Bus Schedule:
10:30am - Bus departs from Las Vegas Convention Center to Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits
11:00am-1:00pm –Mixology Training
1:30pm - Bus arrives back at Las Vegas Convention Center

Speakers
avatar for Livio Lauro

Livio Lauro

Director of Mixology and Spirits Education, Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits of Nevada
Livio Lauro is a renowned figure in the beverage industry, currently serving as the Director of Mixology and Spirits Education at Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits of Nevada. With over two decades of experience, Livio has been instrumental in shaping modern mixology trends and educating... Read More →
Monday March 24, 2025 11:00am - 1:00pm PDT
Southern Glazers Wine & Spirits

1:00pm PDT

How to Create a Luxury Beverage Program on a Value Budget
Monday March 24, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm PDT
In an ever-changing economic landscape, it's crucial to balance cutting costs with delivering a premium guest experience. Join me as I share strategies that not only meet but exceed guest expectations while driving profitability.

  • Create perceived value through memorable guest experiences.
  • Define and strengthen your brand identity.
  • Assess and manage risks to optimize menu offerings.
  • Implement cost-saving strategies without compromising quality.
Speakers
avatar for Majdi Kayyali

Majdi Kayyali

Corporate Vice President of F&B, Gila River Resorts & Casinos
Majdi Kayyali began his 15-year career in food & beverage in Charlotte, NC before moving to Phoenix, AZ in 2017. In the thriving foodie city, he assisted in managing F&B programs at the esteemed Arizona Biltmore, a Waldorf Astoria Resort. He then transitioned to open Maple & Ash... Read More →
Monday March 24, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm PDT
Room #222

1:00pm PDT

Pour Smarter, Not Harder: Tech Solutions to Smooth Out the Rush
Monday March 24, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm PDT
Let’s be real—tech is supposed to help, not slow you down. One technology expert went behind the stick to better understand exactly how bar tech impacts the day-to-day operation. The result? It’s clear that the right tech partner understands what it’s like to work a busy shift and what it takes to help you run a smoother operation.

In this session, you’ll hear from the owners and operators on how working with a tech partner who truly gets the day-to-day grind can help you run a smoother operation. Learn how cutting down on clicks and speeding up order times can make a world of difference for your team and your guests. We’ll walk you through real ways technology can solve the everyday challenges your bar faces, so you can get back to what matters most: boosting your bottom line while building community.
Speakers
avatar for John Henson

John Henson

General Manager, Crown & Anchor Pub
As a born and raised Austinite, John Henson has seen the landscape of the dining and entertainment scene grow up around him.  A 17 year veteran of restaurant management, he started years before within the inner workings of the industry, performing as a busser, host, runner, expo... Read More →
avatar for Zach Lyall

Zach Lyall

Founder, Legacy Lane Hospitality
After 15 years as a Director and Producer, the Covid pandemic made me rethink my priorities and pursue a new path in hospitality. With a mix of naivete and a lot of borrowed money from the bank, my friend Riley Montz and I set out to save our beloved hometown bar in El Segundo from... Read More →
avatar for Bryan Solar

Bryan Solar

Chief Product Officer, SpotOn
Bryan Solar is SpotOn’s Chief Product Officer, leading the charge on innovation and strategy. Bryan started his career in strategy consulting, before leaving to launch a non-profit to help struggling small businesses. After attending business school, Bryan co-founded a real-time... Read More →

Monday March 24, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm PDT
Room #231/232

1:00pm PDT

SOLD OUT! TAO Las Vegas Back of House Tour
Monday March 24, 2025 1:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Limited capacity & transportation is provided! Additional registration add-on item and fees apply to attend. Add to any registration pass.

Add this exclusive behind-the-scenes tour to your Bar & Restaurant Expo experience for an insider look at Tao's four venues: Tao Restaurant, Tao Lounge, Tao Nightclub, and Tao Beach Dayclub. Explore the unique ambiance of each space and learn how they deliver exceptional guest experiences—from fine dining and training processes to high-energy nightlife and dayclub operations. Roundtrip transportation is included.

Bus Schedule:
12:30pm - Bus departs from South Hall Las Vegas Convention Center to Tao
1:00pm-3:00pm Tao Tour
3:15pm - Bus returns to South Hall Las Vegas Convention Center

Monday March 24, 2025 1:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Tao Las Vegas

1:00pm PDT

SOLD OUT! Wynn Nightlife Tour
Monday March 24, 2025 1:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Limited capacity & transportation is provided! Additional registration add-on item and fees apply to attend. Add to any registration pass.

Experience Wynn nightlife like no one has before. Stroll behind the velvet ropes of Las Vegas most celebrated venues within the impressive Wynn and Encore Properties and see Encore Beach Club, and XS Nightclub.

Wynn and Encore can boast the most celebrated nightlife and day life experiences in Las Vegas. These unique clubs feature the hottest entertainment, cutting edge technology and the most luxurious spaces that have put our resort on the map as the ultimate party destination. World-renowned performers, celebrities, and party-goers alike clamor to be part of the action at XS and Encore Beach Club. Intrigue adds an air of mystery, seduction and the unexpected featuring a 14,000-square-foot space that makes the most of indoor and outdoor revelry with attractive waterside scenery.

Bus Schedule:
12:30pm - Bus departs from Las Vegas Convention Center to Wynn
1:00pm-4:00pm –Wynn Nightlife Tour
4:15pm - Bus arrives back at Las Vegas Convention Center

Tour will cover
  • Wynn Nightlife including Intrigue, XS, Encore Beach Club
  • How lines work and VIP entrances
  • Security
  • DJ/ Lighting booths
  • How we staff each venue
  • Capacity
  • Special Events and how they are operated in each venue
  • VIP Tables/Rooms
  • Marketing and Promotions
  • Uniqueness of each venue
  • Gaming in venues
  • Q&A
Monday March 24, 2025 1:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Wynn Las Vegas

2:30pm PDT

Mixology Training II: Pre-batching Is a Godsend!
Monday March 24, 2025 2:30pm - 4:30pm PDT
Limited capacity & transportation is provided! Additional registration add-on item and fees apply to attend. Add to any registration pass.

Pre-batching cocktails was once viewed with skepticism but has now become an invaluable technique for busy bars. It ensures consistency in flavor and presentation, allowing bartenders to engage more with guests. This masterclass will delve into various pre-batching methods and help you identify the most suitable approach for your establishment, ultimately saving time and reducing costs.

Key Takeaways:
  1. Explore the evolution of pre-batching in the bar industry.
  2. Learn different pre-batching techniques and their applications.
  3. Assess the benefits of pre-batching in terms of efficiency and guest satisfaction.
Bus Schedule:
2:00pm - Bus departs from Las Vegas Convention Center to Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits
2:30pm-4:30pm –Mixology Training
5:00pm - Bus arrives back at Las Vegas Convention Center

Speakers
avatar for Livio Lauro

Livio Lauro

Director of Mixology and Spirits Education, Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits of Nevada
Livio Lauro is a renowned figure in the beverage industry, currently serving as the Director of Mixology and Spirits Education at Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits of Nevada. With over two decades of experience, Livio has been instrumental in shaping modern mixology trends and educating... Read More →
Monday March 24, 2025 2:30pm - 4:30pm PDT
Southern Glazers Wine & Spirits

4:00pm PDT

Flavor Trends Panel
Monday March 24, 2025 4:00pm - 4:45pm PDT
Explore the latest flavor trends shaping the bar and restaurant industry with expert insights from a panel of industry leaders. Learn how to stay ahead of the curve and incorporate these trends into your menu.

  • Discover trending flavors that attract customers.
  • Learn how to incorporate new flavors into your menu.
  • Balance innovation with guest preferences.
  • Understand consumer demand for bold and unique tastes.
  • Work with suppliers to source trendy ingredients.
Sponsored by:
Moderators
avatar for Brian Duffy

Brian Duffy

Owner, Duffified Experience Group
Speakers
avatar for Nick Liberato

Nick Liberato

The Borscht Belt Delicatessen, Owner/Chef
avatar for Thomas Leo

Thomas Leo

Senior Manager Culinary Engagement and Strategy, Kraft Heinz Company
A highly accomplished and visionary Chef, Thomas Leo is recognized for leveraging a deep understanding of the marketplace and competitor landscape to drive significant increases in both revenue and operational efficiency. With a career marked by a unique blend of culinary expertise... Read More →
avatar for Tori Lubecki

Tori Lubecki

Vegan Chef
avatar for Aaron Fish

Aaron Fish

Executive Chef, Eat Good Group
Originally from Sonoma County, CA, Aaron Fish moved to the Pacific Northwest in 2008 and never looked back. As the Chef of Eat Good Group, he collaborates with Spiceology on content and recipe development, helps plan and operate Crave NW!, and has appeared on Food Network. A dedicated... Read More →

Monday March 24, 2025 4:00pm - 4:45pm PDT
Room #221

4:00pm PDT

Sip, Serve, Impress: Mastering Memorable Beverage Rituals
Monday March 24, 2025 4:00pm - 4:45pm PDT
Discover how thoughtful pouring and serving rituals can transform a guest's experience and elevate your beverage program. From iconic traditions like the Guinness pour to creative pairings like soda with nuts or a Tajín-rimmed Dos Equis, this session will showcase how these rituals leave lasting impressions. Gain practical insights to implement these techniques and create unforgettable moments for your customers.
Key Takeaways:
  • Understand the impact of unique serving rituals on customer satisfaction and loyalty.
  • Learn best practices for executing iconic beverage rituals, such as proper Guinness pouring or Corona with lime.
  • Explore creative serving ideas like pairing beverages with complementary snacks or unique glassware.
  • Discover how serving rituals can align with and enhance your brand identity.
  • Gain actionable tips to train staff and seamlessly incorporate these practices into your operation.
Moderators
avatar for Peter Camps

Peter Camps

Sr. Mgr. Quality & Education - Brewmaster, Heineken USA
Peter Camps, born and raised in Diest, Belgium where he grew up in the family furniture business.In 1987, he made a leap of faith when he decided to build a career in the beer business and started his apprenticeship at the brewery “De Kluis” in Hoegaarden.After an extensive training... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for James Lombardino

James Lombardino

Beverage Hospitality Consultant, Hogwash
James Lombardino is a seasoned professional with over a decade of cocktail experience spanning various bar settings. From East Village neighborhood hangouts to high-volume underground bars and fine dining restaurants, James has excelled in diverse environments.James's journey includes... Read More →
Monday March 24, 2025 4:00pm - 4:45pm PDT
Room #226/227

6:00pm PDT

Welcome Kickoff Party - Open to All!
Monday March 24, 2025 6:00pm - 8:30pm PDT
Dive into Bar & Restaurant Expo with a splash at the Welcome Kickoff Party at The Pool at SAHARA Las Vegas! Join your fellow attendees for an evening of fun, networking, and great vibes in a stunning poolside setting. Best of all, this party is included with all passes—don’t miss out on starting the event with a bang!

Bring your I.D. and show your badge or registration email confirmation at the door.

Monday March 24, 2025 6:00pm - 8:30pm PDT
The Pool at Sahara 2535 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109

9:00pm PDT

Industry Afterparty I at XS Nightclub
Monday March 24, 2025 9:00pm - 11:00pm PDT
Join fellow bar and restaurant professionals for an unforgettable night of networking at the iconic XS Nightclub! Mix, mingle, and make connections with industry leaders and peers in a lively, upscale setting. Don't miss out on the ultimate after-hours experience—where deals are made, and the drinks keep flowing.

Includes free admission and complimentary beverages provided by our sponsors.

Helpful Tips:

Private Bar & Restaurant Expo Hours: 9pm-11pm
Bring your I.D. and show your badge or registration email confirmation at the door.
For XS Nightclub dress code, click here.

Monday March 24, 2025 9:00pm - 11:00pm PDT
XS Nightclub, Wynn Las Vegas 3131 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV 89109
 

Share Modal

Share this link via

Or copy link

Filter sessions
Apply filters to sessions.
Filtered by Date -