Carrie Darocha, Hospitality Professional/Director of Food and Beverage on Influential Women

Influential Woman · Hospitality

Carrie Darocha

Hospitality Professional/Director of Food and Beverage, IAPWE | International Association of Professional Writers and Editors

Rochester, NY

Her Story

About Carrie

I am a food and beverage and hospitality leader with over a decade of experience in restaurant operations, event management, and culinary innovation, currently serving as Director of Food and Beverage at the Woodcliff Hotel and Spa, a role I have held since October 2023, where I oversee a full-service hotel's food and beverage operations, including a newly refreshed restaurant, bar, and incredible weddings and events, delivering exceptional dining experiences to guests.

Prior to this role, I served as Director of Dining Services at Cloverwood for four years, where I managed two full-service restaurants, room service, catering, a club room bar, cafes, and a gift shop in a premier independent living campus with assisted living and memory care neighborhoods. I also served as Manager at Next Door Bar and Grill for over two years, where I gained experience in business planning and strategic operations.

Earlier in my career, I owned and operated West Edge Restaurant and Lounge for over two years, where I opened a polished casual restaurant and lounge with inventive American cuisine, a gorgeous riverside patio, and an expansive beverage menu including a self-service wine bar.

I also work as a freelance Writer with the International Association of Professional Writers and Editors, a role I have held since December 2024.

Across my career in hospitality, food and beverage leadership, and entrepreneurship, my work has been driven by a commitment to culinary excellence, exceptional guest experiences, and building strong teams that deliver outstanding service. Whether I am leading a hotel's food and beverage operations, managing dining services, or owning and operating my own restaurant, I bring a strategic mindset, strong leadership skills, and a dedication to creating memorable dining experiences. I am proud of the work I have done throughout my career and excited to continue serving guests and leading teams in the hospitality industry.

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