Bartender/ Lead Bartender

Lead Bartender / Bar Manager – Neighborhood Italian Restaurant
Full-time | Hospitality Leadership | Craft Cocktails | Upscale Casual Dining | In-Person Role

We’re a small, well-loved neighborhood Italian restaurant seeking one experienced Lead Bartender to oversee our bar program and help lead a tight-knit, collaborative team. This is a hands-on bartender leadership position for someone who thrives in full-service restaurants, enjoys building craft cocktail menus, and takes pride in creating memorable guest experiences.

If you’re a strong bar professional who can balance hospitality, creativity, and operational leadership, this is your chance to shape a respected local bar program and make a real impact.

Key Responsibilities – Lead Bartender / Bar Manager

• Lead daily bar operations in a guest-focused environment
• Develop and maintain a seasonal craft cocktail program with Italian influence
• Execute classic cocktails, aperitivo-style beverages, and wine-forward service
• Train and mentor bartenders and servers on cocktail knowledge, wine service, and hospitality standards
• Manage inventory, ordering, cost control, bar prep systems, and organization
• Collaborate with ownership and culinary team on menu development, beverage pairings, and specials
• Maintain a clean, efficient, and profitable bar operation
• Set the tone for exceptional customer service and consistent guest experiences

Qualifications – Ideal Candidate

• 3+ years bartending in upscale casual dining, Italian restaurants, or full-service hospitality
• Previous lead bartender, head bartender, or bar manager experience preferred
• Strong knowledge of classic cocktails, Italian spirits, amari, vermouth, wine service, and craft beverage trends
• Proven ability in team leadership, staff training, and bar program development
• Hospitality-driven mindset with excellent communication and guest engagement skills
• Highly organized with strong attention to detail and time management
• Dependable, self-motivated, and solutions-oriented
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced restaurant environment
• Passion for food, wine, cocktails, and restaurant culture

Schedule & Physical Requirements

• Nights, weekends, and holidays required
• Able to stand for extended periods, bend, reach, and lift 35 lbs (occasionally 50 lbs)
• Current food handler’s and liquor certifications required (or willingness to obtain)

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive earning potential
• Creative input and leadership over the cocktail and beverage program
• Employee dining discounts
• Paid training and ongoing hospitality education opportunities
• Consistent leadership schedule with flexibility when possible
• Supportive, collaborative restaurant team environment
• Growth opportunities within a respected local restaurant brand

We’re hiring one strong hospitality leader who can help steer the bar, elevate the guest experience, and build a program that regulars return to again and again.

Apply today — include your bartending experience, leadership background, and a brief note about your cocktail style or bar philosophy.

Pay: $20.00 - $45.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Paid training
• Referral program
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person