Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Community Leadership
Professional Highlights
Timeline
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Rafael Isaac Fernández

San Juan

Summary

Multifaceted Food & Beverage Director and entrepreneur with over 20 years of progressive experience in hospitality, nightlife, and restaurant operations. Proven leader in concept development, event production, and team management. Founder of some of the Caribbean's most unique dining experiences, combining hands-on execution with sharp business acumen. Deeply rooted in Puerto Rico's culinary and entertainment culture. Known for turning ideas into successful venues and experiences - from VIP bottle service to financial oversight.

Overview

20
20
years of professional experience

Work History

Co-Founder / Director of Operations

Tabú Bodega
01.2022 - Current
  • Created Puerto Rico's first erotic dining concept with immersive entertainment.
  • Led venue construction, branding, bar design, and F&B program.
  • Developed a signature cocktail menu with liquor sponsors.
  • Managed staff training, payroll, vendor relations, compliance, event planning, and marketing.
  • Increased visibility through influencer events and experiential marketing.

Co-Founder / General Manager / Operator

Piso Viejo
01.2016 - 01.2024
  • Oversaw all business functions including HR, licensing, inventory, finance (QuickBooks), POS systems, and social media.
  • Built a popular venue known for salsa nights, DJs, and immersive nightlife.
  • Managed a team of 25+, developed brand collaborations and promotional campaigns.

Bartender / Promoter / Event Producer

Club Brava / The Rose / Eternal Lobby Lounge
01.2010 - 01.2017
  • Delivered VIP service at celebrity events (J.Lo, Vin Diesel, Wisin & Yandel).
  • Organized weekly nightlife events geared toward tourism.
  • Managed high-volume service shifts with up to 1,000 guests and strict inventory control.

General Manager

Basiliko Lounge & Rooftop
01.2008 - 01.2010
  • Supervised operations of a three-level venue: fine dining, nightclub, and rooftop.
  • Directed scheduling, purchasing, staffing, payroll, and day-to-day logistics.

VIP Manager / Assistant Manager

Liquid Club
01.2006 - 01.2008
  • Oversaw VIP bottle service and guest relations for crowds exceeding 800 guests.
  • Assisted with payroll, inventory, and promoter coordination.

Education

Bachelor's Degree - Criminal Justice & Paralegal Studies

Universidad Ana G. Méndez

Skills

  • Restaurant & Venue Operations
  • Team Leadership & Staff Development
  • Budgeting & Financial Oversight
  • Event Planning & Promotion
  • Vendor Relations & Brand Sponsorships
  • Inventory & Cost Control
  • QuickBooks & POS Management
  • Marketing & Social Media Strategy
  • Licensing & Regulatory Compliance
  • Bilingual Communication (English & Spanish)

Community Leadership

President, Calle Loíza Business Association, 01/01/23, Present, Collaborated with the Municipality of San Juan to position Calle Loíza as a culinary and cultural destination., Led safety, infrastructure, and small business growth initiatives.

Professional Highlights

  • Founded and operated two original concepts - Piso Viejo and Tabú Bodega - managing everything from venue design to daily operations.
  • Boosted monthly sales by 25% through curated events, brand sponsorships, and influencer marketing.
  • Reduced operating costs by 15% by streamlining staff schedules, renegotiating vendor contracts, and minimizing shrinkage.
  • Managed 20-30 team members while maintaining high morale and service standards in high-volume environments.
  • Oversaw multi-level venues serving over 1,000 guests nightly during peak seasons.
  • Built strategic partnerships with beverage brands and promoters to drive traffic and increase brand recognition.

Timeline

Co-Founder / Director of Operations

Tabú Bodega
01.2022 - Current

Co-Founder / General Manager / Operator

Piso Viejo
01.2016 - 01.2024

Bartender / Promoter / Event Producer

Club Brava / The Rose / Eternal Lobby Lounge
01.2010 - 01.2017

General Manager

Basiliko Lounge & Rooftop
01.2008 - 01.2010

VIP Manager / Assistant Manager

Liquid Club
01.2006 - 01.2008

Bachelor's Degree - Criminal Justice & Paralegal Studies

Universidad Ana G. Méndez
Rafael Isaac Fernández