Pino's Gift Basket Shoppe and Wine Cellar — Restaurant in Highland Park

If you’re going to Pino’s Bar and you’re lucky enough to have Wayne behind the bar, you’re in for a five-star experience. As the senior bartender, Wayne sets the tone not just for drink quality, but for the entire customer experience. His level of professionalism and consistency is something every service industry venue should strive for.

First off, the drinks were absolutely on point—balanced, well-presented, and served quickly even during the busy rush. Wayne clearly understands flavor profiles and customer preferences. He asked just the right questions and made tailored recommendations that hit every mark. His execution shows someone who takes pride in his craft, not just someone pouring drinks.

But what really stood out was the customer service. Wayne doesn’t just serve you; he engages you. His ability to read the room and interact appropriately with each customer is rare. Whether you’re a first-timer or a regular, he makes you feel welcome, remembered, and respected. That’s a major KPI in hospitality: guest connection and retention, and Wayne nails it.

He also keeps the bar area spotless and organized, all while multitasking with ease—another performance KPI that too often gets overlooked. From managing tabs and keeping drinks flowing to training new staff with patience and clarity, Wayne brings leadership and efficiency without sacrificing hospitality. His time-to-service rate was excellent, even during peak hours, and you could see younger bartenders following his lead. That’s real operational influence.

In short, Wayne doesn’t just represent Pino’s—he elevates it. If you’re evaluating what makes a bar memorable and high-functioning, Wayne is a walking case study. Pino’s is lucky to have him, and so are...

Haven't been here in a while because my last experience was so bad. I usually don't write reviews, but a friend just asked me out to drinks here and, when I told them why I no longer go to pino's, they said to post a review.

Firstly, I used to be a regular at Pino's, going at least twice a week. I think it's really gone down hill overall from a couple years ago, after they suddenly laid off a lot of the really good bartenders. If you open a tab, check your bill carefully because I have been charged for drinks that aren't mine multiple times. The bartenders USUALLY remove any accidental charges if you point it out.

Now, I say usually because of my last experience. I ordered two drinks and was charged for an extra drink. I told the bartender, and they said it was the surcharge for using my card. I.e. they were claiming there is a 33% surcharge, which is complete nonsense since it is 4%. FURTHERMORE, I have a debit card not a credit card. While I knew this was the only time I've been surcharged for a DEBIT card, I later learned merchants are only allowed to surcharges credit cards. It is actually illegal to surcharge debit cards, so watch...

This community led establishment is a pillar in town. It provides a safe and welcoming space to all that come in and makes continued efforts to include more artists, musicians, vendors, fundraisers, from all walks of life. On any given day there are amazing musicians and a mixed inter-generational audience who appreciate and value the hard work and creativity that everyone here brings to the table. From the owners, to the staff, to Skullboy (pizza) I must say that without Pinos, Highland Park would not be Highland Park. I definitely recommend coming here, there’s plenty of great beverages at the bar, fresh pizza, and a great atmosphere for conversation and leisure. Last but not least, no matter how your day has gone, when you come here you can show up as you are and be yourself, this is a...