AC Hotel by Marriott Greenville Downtown announces Kelan Akers as assistant beverage director

AC Hotel by Marriott Greenville Downtown is delighted to announce the appointment of Kelan Akers as assistant beverage director. In this role, Akers will be responsible for assisting in the creation of a one-of-a-kind cocktail experience for each of the hotel’s beverage and dining outlets. Akers will also help oversee beverage and service for AC Hotel Greenville Downtown, where patrons enjoy a wide variety of options available at the multiple restaurants and bars located at the hotel, including Juniper, the 16,000 square foot immersive rooftop space, and Paloma, a Mediterranean-inspired tapas bar with indoor and outdoor dining offering views of Main Street.

“We are thrilled to announce Kelan’s promotion to assistant beverage director,” said John Deck, general manager of AC Hotel Greenville Downtown. “With a vast array of talents and expertise, each member of our fantastic team brings something unique to our food and beverage offerings and we look forward to further enhancing the guest experience with Kelan in his new leadership position.”

Prior to becoming assistant beverage director, Akers was master mixologist for the newly opened The Press Room, a modern speakeasy-style cocktail bar located within the hotel and paying homage to The Greenville News. As master mixologist, he created an ever-evolving menu of finely crafted cocktails and brought to life The Press Room’s exclusive experience of hand poured drinks enjoyed in an intimate and vintage-inspired setting. Akers developed each intricate cocktail recipe and meticulously considered differentiating details such as glassware and presentation, all of which is intended to inspire engagement and conversation in a personable and warm atmosphere. Complementing The Press Room’s dynamic cocktail offerings is an expertly curated selection of rare spirts, wine and champagne, each one carefully chosen by Akers to achieve a truly innovative menu and bespoke experience you will not find anywhere else in the area.

“I was honored to be able to develop the menu for the launch of The Press Room and make it a fun and different destination for locals and visitors,” said Akers. “I am excited to now have the opportunity expand my passion for and knowledge of both mixology and hospitality to other areas as assistant beverage director.”

Akers grew up in Detroit and his bartending experience began in college. Realizing his passion for the beverage trade, he decided to pursue it as a career and accepted a management position at Mesa before moving to Greenville four years ago. Akers comes to AC Hotel Greenville Downtown from Vault and Vator where he was lead bartender. In addition to being behind the bar, Akers enjoys experimenting in the kitchen, having learned to cook at an early age from his father who is a chef. His cocktail recipes often utilize food flavors and culinary ingredients, especially in seasonal drinks.

About AC Hotel by Marriott Greenville Downtown

Greenville Owned and operated by Auro Hotels, the 8-story hotel features 196 guest rooms and suites, and nearly 29,000 sq. ft. of space available for meetings and events. Guests enjoy multiple dining concepts, and Juniper, a 16,000 sq. ft. all-season, immersive rooftop space. AC Hotel by Marriott Greenville Downtown is part of the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program. For more information, visit @ACHotelGreenville.