

ava vitale
NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED HOSPITALITY PROFESSIONAL
ABOUT ME
Hospitality has always been more than a career for me – it’s where I found my passion for creating meaningful experiences and building genuine connections.
At 23, I co-founded Crave Kitchen & Cocktails, where I now serve as Beverage Director. Since opening, I’ve had the opportunity to build an award-winning beverage program, develop innovative cocktail menus, lead staff education, and help shape a restaurant culture centered on creativity, excellence, and genuine hospitality. These early experiences taught me that exceptional hospitality isn’t just about great food or a well-crafted cocktail; it’s about making people feel seen, welcomed, and remembered.
My career has taken me far beyond the bar. I’ve been honored as the 2025 Bar & Restaurant Expo Industry Excellence Bartender of the Year, recognized as one of Bar & Restaurant News’ Top Shelf: Next Generation of Hospitality Excellence – 30 Under 30, and named a 2026 Global Connections for Women (GC4W) Woman to Watch. I’m also a two-time Stateline Shakeoff Champion and have had the privilege of speaking at national and regional hospitality conferences, sharing my experiences with industry professionals from across the country.
My desire to take care of people and create meaningful experiences is what drives everything I do. I believe the smallest details can leave the biggest impression, and I'm passionate about creating moments that make people feel welcomed, celebrated, and genuinely cared for.


STATELINE SHAKEOFF CHAMPION
BACK TO BACK 1ST PLACE FINISHES
2025 & 2026
A WOMAN TO WATCH
GLOBAL CONNECTIONS FOR WOMEN : HARVARD CLUB OF NYC 2026
AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS

the vitale bar experience
The Vitale Bar Experience is a personalized hospitality experience designed to educate, entertain, and bring people together. Whether you're looking for an interactive, hands-on cocktail class, private bartending, or a custom beverage experience, each event is thoughtfully tailored to your group's goals, occasion, and skill level.
Available at Crave or on-site at your event, each experience is fully customized to deliver an engaging and elevated cocktail experience.

looking for inspiration?
Developing thoughtfully curated, seasonally inspired cocktail menus is one of my favorite parts of what I do. From concept development and flavor pairing to menu balance, scaling, execution, and profitability, every menu is crafted with creativity and intention.
Browse a selection of my seasonal menus below.
To view my entire menu collection, or to discuss bar consultations and menu development, submit an inquiry below. I look forward to connecting with you!
