Job Description: SommelierPosition Summary
The Sommelier is responsible for curating and elevating the wine experience at Dear Dad through expert product knowledge, exceptional guest engagement, and ongoing wine education. Working alongside the Operating Partner, General Manager, and Beverage Supervisor, this role enhances the dining experience by guiding guests through thoughtful wine selections, maintaining an exceptional wine program, and fostering a culture of beverage excellence.
This position may be structured as either full-time or part-time, depending on the experience, qualifications, and availability of the selected candidate.
About Dear Dad
Dear Dad is a steakhouse built on the belief that the best meals are shared — around a table, across generations, with good stories, exceptional food, and a glass worth lingering over. Featuring premium steaks, fresh seafood, handcrafted pasta, and an elevated beverage program, we create memorable dining experiences through genuine hospitality, thoughtful service, and an unwavering commitment to quality.
As the newest restaurant concept from Belly Brands Hospitality Group, Dear Dad represents the next chapter in our commitment to exceptional hospitality.
Essential Responsibilities
Guest Engagement & Service
- Provide personalized wine recommendations based on guest preferences, menu selections, and occasion.
- Build meaningful relationships with guests through approachable wine education and genuine hospitality.
- Conduct professional wine service, including presentation, opening, decanting, and proper pouring techniques.
- Assist with elevated guest experiences, VIP dining, celebrations, and private events.
- Partner with Servers to enhance the overall dining experience through thoughtful food and wine pairings.
Wine Program Management
- Maintain an extensive knowledge of the wine list, producers, vintages, and regions.
- Recommend additions and seasonal changes to the wine program in collaboration with leadership.
- Monitor wine cost, inventory levels, and inventory variances; assist with receiving wine shipments.
- Maintain cellar organization, storage conditions, and wine rotation.
- Assist with pricing recommendations, product selection, and beverage purchasing decisions.
- Collaborate with the Beverage Supervisor on the overall beverage program; stay informed on industry trends.
- Assist in developing reserve wine offerings, featured selections, and seasonal promotions.
- Plan wine pairings for private events, chef dinners, and promotional guest-facing events.
Leadership & Staff Development
- Serve as the primary wine resource for all front-of-house employees.
- Lead ongoing wine education, develop training materials/tasting guides, and conduct workshops.
- Mentor and coach Servers and Bartenders to confidently recommend wines, increase sales, and master service techniques.
- Assist in onboarding new team members with wine knowledge and service standards.
- Foster a culture of continuous learning, hospitality, and professional development.
- Support leadership in maintaining high beverage and service standards.
Qualifications Required
- Minimum Level 1 Sommelier Certification or equivalent wine education.
- Strong knowledge of wine regions, varietals, vintages, and food pairings.
- Previous experience in upscale dining or fine dining hospitality.
- Excellent communication and guest engagement skills.
- Professional appearance and demeanor.
- Availability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays.
Preferred
- Level 2 Sommelier Certification or actively pursuing advanced certification.
- Experience managing wine inventories and ordering.
- Previous experience leading staff education.
- Knowledge of spirits, cocktails, and beer.
- Experience hosting wine tastings or educational events.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
- Lift and carry cases of wine weighing up to 50 pounds.
- Frequently bend, reach, and move throughout the restaurant.
- Work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
Success in This Role
A successful Sommelier elevates every aspect of the Dear Dad wine program. Through exceptional hospitality, expert guidance, and continuous education, they create memorable guest experiences while developing a knowledgeable service team and driving beverage sales. They are both a trusted advisor to guests and an educator to the restaurant team, ensuring wine becomes a defining element of the Dear Dad experience.
About Belly Brands Hospitality Group
Belly Brands Hospitality Group began in 2002 at the original Bull & Bear Pub in downtown Syracuse. Since then, we’ve grown into a dynamic collection of restaurants and catering concepts serving Central New York with heart, hospitality, and flavor.
Today, our family includes three unique concepts — Bull & Bear Roadhouse, The Daily Diner, and Yards Grille — as well as a full service catering company. We’re also proud to operate six food concepts at the Lakeview Amphitheater, feeding thousands of guests each season.
At the core of everything we do is our team. We believe every win is earned together — through shared standards, genuine hospitality, and a commitment to excellence. If you’re driven, passionate, and ready to grow, you’ll fit right in.
Pay: $24.00 - $33.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
License/Certification:
- Court of Master Sommeliers Intro Sommelier Certification (Required)
Work Location: In person
