People of
Prendivile Group
Diogo Viola
Passion and perfection.. the secret to 10 years as Cottesloe Beach Hotel’s Head Bartender
Prendivile Group
Having worked at some of the most elaborate five-star hotels and cruise ships in the world, Diogo Viola is no stranger to high hospitality standards.
Originally from the beachside town of Albufeira in Portugal’s south, Diogo has spent the last 23 years following his passion to create bespoke beachside beverages — and he’s learnt quite a few things along the way.
On the eve of his 11 year anniversary working at Prendiville Group’s iconic Cottesloe Beach Hotel, we pulled up a bar stool and asked him to dish the details on his worldwide journey.
So, Diogo, how long have you been part of the Prendiville Group family?
February 2 will mark my 11 year anniversary of working at the Cottesloe Beach Hotel. The time has gone pretty quick to be honest!
How did you come to join the Prendiville Group?
It was a mere coincidence that I ended up in Perth with the right skills and the right opportunity in front of me. Having years of experience working bar-side at five-star resorts and cruise ships, I was looking for my next gig and shortly after arriving in Perth I was introduced to the Prendiville Group, who was looking for a bartender at the Cottesloe Beach Hotel. The rest is history really.
11 years is quite the time, tell us about your career with Prendiville Group
My journey at the Cottesloe Beach Hotel began in the mixology bar just under 11 years ago, where I started as the Hotel’s bartender. Fast-forward 6-months later, I was promoted to Head Bartender, where I get to not only serve customers with the best concoctions, but create a revolving menu of cocktails that have been handcrafted by my team and I.
Overtime, my role as Head Bartender has evolved and I’ve become responsible for training staff and overseeing the bar area to ensure my team receives the support they need to deliver the best experience for our customers. From time to time, I also take on the role as the Supervisor and Duty Manager.
Aside from getting to soak up Cottesloe’s beachside vibes each and every day, what do you love most about your job?
I love serving the locals. Cottesloe Beach Hotel is like a little family, everyone is very approachable and easy going. I’ve also loved having the opportunity to learn more about the food and beverage category, such as wine and seafood pairings, which I previously never had experience with.