Overview
We are seeking a dynamic and passionate Sommelier / Service Manager to elevate our wine and beverage program while delivering exceptional customer service in a lively, fine dining environment. This role combines expert wine knowledge with leadership skills to create memorable dining experiences for our guests. The ideal candidate will thrive in a fast-paced setting, possess a deep understanding of food and beverage service, and demonstrate a genuine enthusiasm for hospitality excellence. This paid position offers an exciting opportunity to lead with expertise, inspire team members, and contribute to the vibrant atmosphere of our restaurant.
Mandatory Requirements:
* Minimum 5 years of fine dining experience as a service manager or a sommelier
* At least 2 years in a Michelin-starred or Michelin Guide recognized restaurant
* Experience managing a beverage program with premium wine inventory
* Proven leadership experience supervising servers and support staff
* Experience with tasting menus and synchronized service
Preferred:
* Experience in luxury hotels (Four Seasons, Ritz-Carlton, Mandarin Oriental, Oberoi, Taj, etc.)
* Experience opening restaurants
* Experience with international wine programs
Wine Knowledge:
*Candidate should possess extensive knowledge of old world wines and new world wines
*Candidate must understand wine regions, grape varietals, terroir, vinification, vintage variation, classification systems, decanting, cellaring, etc.
Certifications - preferred qualifications include one or more:
* WSET Level 3
* WSET Diploma
* Certified Sommelier (Court of Master Sommeliers)
* Advanced Sommelier
* Introductory Master Sommelier Course
* Society of Wine Educators certification
Beverage Knowledge - extensive knowledge in:
* Champagne
* Sparkling wine
* Fortified wines
* Dessert wines
* Sake
* Whisky
* Bourbon
* Cognac
* Armagnac
* Rum
* Gin
* Tequila
* Mezcal
* Premium cocktails
* Craft beer
* Non-alcoholic pairings as well as coffee and tea
Food Pairing Skills - must demonstrate ability to pair wine with:
* Seafood/Shellfish
* Beef/Lamb
* Poultry/ Game
* Vegetarian/Vegan cuisine
* Indian cuisine
* Asian cuisine
* Cheese
* Desserts
Service Standards - candidate should demonstrate mastery of:
* French service
* Silver service
* Gueridon service
* Decanting
* Champagne presentation
* Wine presentation
* Cork extraction
* Correct pouring techniques
* Glassware selection
* Table maintenance
* Guest recognition
* Anticipatory service
Leadership - must have experience:
* Leading pre-service briefings
* Conducting wine education
* Coaching junior sommeliers
* Mentoring servers
* Performance management
* Conflict resolution
* Scheduling
* Labour management
Financial Knowledge - must understand:
* Beverage cost %
* Gross profit
* Inventory management
* Wine purchasing
* Vendor negotiations
* Menu engineering
* Pricing strategy
* Waste control
* Monthly inventory
* Budgeting
Inventory Management - should be proficient in:
* Cellar organization
* FIFO
* Stock rotation
* Vintage tracking
* Ordering
* Receiving
* Loss prevention
* Breakage control
Guest Relations - must excel in:
* Reading guest preferences
* Upselling naturally
* Handling VIPs
* Special occasions
* Guest recovery
* Complaint resolution
* Creating memorable dining experiences
Communication:
* Excellent spoken English
* Professional appearance
* Calm under pressure
* Storytelling ability
* Confidence presenting wines tableside
* Strong interpersonal skills
Additional languages are an advantage.
Technology experience with:
* POS systems
* Wine inventory software
* Microsoft Office
* Excel reporting
* Reservation systems
Join us to be part of a vibrant team dedicated to delivering outstanding hospitality experiences! We value energetic professionals who are eager to lead with passion while fostering a welcoming atmosphere for both guests and colleagues alike.
Pay: $26.00 - $31.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
- Paid sick time
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Experience:
- Restaurant management: 5 years (Required)
Work Location: In person
