Some skills can be taught, such as how to pour a good stiff drink. Some skills are innate, such as how to pour a stiff drink while engaging guests in such a way that makes them feel welcomed and appreciated but not smothered. And when someone has that knack, as does Jason, his bar becomes a very popular place, as T. Cook's has.
Jason joined the Royal Palms a decade ago and while his title is Lounge Manager which requires him to work on drink menus, recipes and promotions, in his mind, his most important job is to improve customer service every day. And his secret? He manages a sly smile and responds, "Smile, smile, smile and treat every guest as if he or she is your best friend. It works wonders."
So it's no wonder that Jason was the resort's Employee of the Year in 2004, has been featured in countless articles including the cover for a new beverage magazine called SIPS, and is on a first name basis with local celebs as well as the international glitterati who frequent the resort.
Jason started bartending at Forsgate Country Club in New Jersey and was mentored by a fabulously charismatic former Broadway star who taught him "everything he knows." A decade later, Jason headed to Arizona and landed at T. Cook's, committing himself to creating a bar where "he would know everyone's name."
When not behind the bar, Jason can likely be found hanging at home with his favorite fans, his wife and young son, or planning his next adventure to San Diego.
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