Restaurant Sommelier

About Us

Galiano Wine is a boutique Napa Valley wine label known for producing small-lot Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Rosé, and Sparkling wines. For years, we’ve built a following through direct-to-consumer sales, wine club memberships, and special events.

Now, we’re bringing our label to life with the opening of Galiano Wine Bar & Restaurant in the heart of St. James, NY. This will be our flagship hospitality space — an elevated yet approachable wine-first dining experience that combines seasonal cuisine with a curated wine program.

The Role

We are seeking a Lead Bartender to help set the tone for our bar program and guest experience. This is not a volume-driven cocktail bar — it’s a boutique environment where wine takes center stage, complemented by thoughtful cocktails, premium beers, and sparkling options.

The Lead Bartender will be the face of the bar, guiding guests through our wine list, executing a small but refined cocktail program, and ensuring a warm, elevated experience that reflects the Galiano Wine brand.

Responsibilities

• Lead bar operations during service, ensuring smooth flow and consistency
• Deliver an engaging guest experience with deep knowledge of wines, cocktails, and pairings
• Manage inventory, ordering, and vendor relationships for spirits and bar supplies
• Support development of wine-forward cocktails and seasonal bar specials
• Train and mentor bar staff on service standards and wine/cocktail knowledge
• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations
• Collaborate with ownership and GM to refine the beverage program and guest journey

Qualifications

• 3+ years of bartending experience in upscale or boutique hospitality environments
• Strong knowledge of wine (formal training or certifications a plus)
• Ability to lead a team and mentor junior bartenders
• Comfortable with both classic and creative cocktail builds
• Excellent guest service, communication, and hospitality instincts
• Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and passionate about creating memorable experiences

Job Types: Full-time, Contract

Pay: $45,000.00 - $65,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Paid time off

Work Location: In person