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Tom Richter
Bartender / bar director
- Discipline
- Other
i. Biography
“My vision was to create a place where people could have a healthy and affordable meal.” That brief is the throughline in Tom Richter’s bar work: utility before theater, hospitality before ego. Across rooms in different cities, he has applied the same discipline to the same end — a bar that reads clearly to the guest and stays usable at scale.
Coming Up
Early in their career, Tom worked as bartender at restaurants and bars in Minneapolis, bartender at Zuni Café in San Francisco, Head Bartender at The John Dory Oyster Bar at the Ace Hotel in New York City, Head Bartender at The Beagle in Avenue A, New York City, and Head Bartender at bar 54 at the Hyatt Times Square in New York City (2014). Today, Tom is owner of Isabella, Head Bartender of Milk & Honey NYC, Head Bartender of Dear Irving, and cocktail program designer of Upland Restaurant NYC.
Where They Are Now
At Dear Irving in New York City, Richter works in the position that shapes the bar’s daily standard: Head Bartender. The job sits at the point where service, pacing, and drink execution meet. His approach is direct, guest-minded, and built for comfort rather than display.
Signature
Tom's signature dishes include Tomr’s Tonic.
In Their Words “I want them to feel good about what their eating and be able to dine with us a few times a week.” “My vision was to create a place where people could have a healthy and affordable meal.”
Honors
Tom's honors include Tomr’s Tonic named one of the top 10 new products in the world for Tales of the Cocktail and Tomr’s Tonic ranked number two in the top five new food products.
Profile updated July 2026
FAQ
Asked of Tom
What is Tom Richter's current role?
As of 2026, Tom Richter is Head Bartender.
Where did Tom Richter work before?
Tom Richter's earlier career included restaurants and bars in Minneapolis, Zuni Café, and The John Dory Oyster Bar at the Ace Hotel.
What recognition has Tom Richter received?
Tomr’s Tonic named one of the top 10 new products in the world for Tales of the Cocktail (2012).
