Bentley’s Grill Announces New General Manager
Salem, OR, Nov. 1, 2018— A steadfast, gregarious, and hardworking employee has been selected to become the new general manager at Bentley’s Grill in downtown Salem. Soraida Cross, special events extraordinaire and an essential part of the Bentley’s team for more than a decade, is working successfully to invigorate the brand. With a strong focus on marketing, she’s helping to redirect the restaurant’s presence in Salem’s social scene.
Gamberetti’s Italian Restaurant owner Treva Gambs eagerly congratulated Soraida Cross on her promotion to general manager of Bentley’s Grill; “When I first was told of the news, I felt overwhelming excitement,” Gambs said. “She is a person that has helped me grow my company and is always there when I need her.”
Several guests and peers echoed Gambs’ sentiments as evidence of her love for her job, adding Cross as a person they trust to always deliver first-rate customer service. 
For 13 years, Cross has dedicated her talent, energy and ideas to Bentley’s Grill, starting as day bartender, advancing to bar manager, and being promoted to special events coordinator only a few years later.
With more than 25 years of restaurant experience, Cross will be leading the way for positive changes at Bentley’s, including new menus and rejuvenating the brand. Her colleagues agree Cross is the perfect choice to lead their team.
Tia Encinas, who is the executive assistant to the president of Norpac Foods, appreciates Cross’ high-level of service, professionalism, and patience with last-minute requests.
SEDCOR Director of Operations & Special Events Manager Tami Lundy has worked with Cross frequently on SEDCOR client meetings and events.
“Soraida excels in making sure all the details for our clients are perfect and that they enjoy their dining experience along with great customer service,” Lundy said.
Oregon Restaurant & Lodging Association Business Development Director Marla McColly said Cross is a perfect model of success that is achievable in the hospitality industry for professionals seeking a journey to leadership.
“She has worked her way through several positions at the Salem Convention Center and Bentley’s Grill, and her determination to learn has been rewarded with the reigns of one of the best restaurants in the Willamette Valley,” McColly said. “She is the best person for the job and will be a key factor in leading the restaurant, as well as putting the growing Salem food-scene on the map.”
Everyone on “The Block” is excited for the coming months. With all hands on deck, the crew of Bentley’s Grill has hit the ground running with preparations for a busy holiday season, with more surprises yet to come.
Greg McManus
V.P. Operations, VIP’s Industries, Inc.
503-779-1603
Kristi Reed
Director of Sales and Marketing
Bentleys Grill
https://www.bentleysgrill.com
kristi.reed@grandhotelsalem.com