Restaurant Manager - Tasting Room

Job Title: Restaurant Manager – Tasting Room
Reports To: Director of Food & Beverage
Coordinates With: Culinary Team, Wine Educators, Front-of-House Staff, Marketing Team
Position Type: Full-time; Exempt

Position Overview
The Restaurant Manager at the Tasting Room oversees all dining operations, ensuring exceptional guest experiences that reflect the quality of Nicewonder Farm & Vineyard. This role provides leadership to the front-of-house team, manages operational and financial performance, and maintains a high standard of service, quality, and hospitality. The manager collaborates closely with culinary and wine teams to deliver a seamless and memorable experience for all guests.

About Us:

At The Virginian Golf Club & Nicewonder Farm & Vineyards, we believe in more than just beautiful views and top-tier amenities — we believe in creating experiences that linger. Located across 1,500+ acres in Virginia’s highlands, our private community blends championship golf, elegant lodging, curated cuisine, and award-winning wine into one destination you’ll never forget.

From Tom Fazio’s pristinely sculpted golf course, to our boutique Inn and luxury yurts, to Hickory — our fine dining restaurant led by a James Beard-nominated chef — everything we do is rooted in hospitality, nature, craftsmanship, and joy. We are growing, innovating, and deeply committed to quality in every service and encounter.

Join us, help us craft memorable moments, and be part of a team that blends country elegance with genuine warmth.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all aspects of restaurant operations, including staffing, training, scheduling, and performance management.
• Develop and implement policies, procedures, and standards to maintain service excellence and guest satisfaction.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and sanitation regulations throughout the restaurant.
• Oversee menu development, pricing strategies, and inventory management to optimize profitability.
• Foster a positive work culture promoting teamwork, communication, and professional growth.
• Monitor dining room activity, guest feedback, and service flow to identify opportunities for improvement and implement corrective actions.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with guests, vendors, and community partners to enhance reputation and drive business growth.
• Collaborate with the culinary team to ensure consistency in food quality, presentation, and service flow.
• Handle guest inquiries, complaints, and special requests professionally and promptly.
• Stay informed about industry trends, market developments, and customer preferences to maintain a competitive edge.

Qualifications

Required

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality, Business, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in restaurant management, preferably in fine dining or upscale casual settings.
• Demonstrated leadership and team management skills.
• Strong financial management skills, including budgeting, cost control, and revenue optimization.
• Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities.
• Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Preferred

• Additional certifications in hospitality management or wine education.
• Experience in farm-to-table or winery-based restaurant operations.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)

• Ability to inspire, motivate, and mentor a diverse team.
• Strong business acumen with expertise in operational efficiency.
• Keen attention to detail with a focus on service excellence.
• Ability to resolve guest issues diplomatically and effectively.
• Awareness of industry trends and market developments to adapt strategies accordingly.

Work Environment / Physical Requirements
This position operates in a fast-paced restaurant environment, requiring frequent walking and standing. Staff are exposed to indoor and seasonal outdoor conditions and must be able to lift and carry up to 50 lbs, including supplies and materials for event setup.

Benefits of Joining Our Team

At The Virginian Golf Club, Nicewonder Inn, and Nicewonder Farm & Vineyards, we believe our employees are the heart of our success. We’re proud to offer a supportive, rewarding workplace with benefits designed to help you thrive both personally and professionally.

Our benefits include:

• Competitive Pay – Fair wages with opportunities for growth.
• Health & Wellness – Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, plus company-provided life insurance at no cost to you.
• Retirement Planning – 401(k) plan with company contribution.
• Paid Time Off – Vacation, holidays, and sick time to support work–life balance.
• Team Member Discounts – Special pricing on lodging, dining, and vineyard experiences.
• Beautiful Work Environment – A scenic setting across 1,500+ acres of rolling hills, vineyards, and golf greens.
• Career Growth – Training, mentorship, and advancement opportunities across hospitality, golf, and agricultural operations.
• Positive Culture – Be part of a professional team that values respect, collaboration, and excellence in service.

EEO Statement

The Virginian Golf Club L.C. is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.