General Manager

Old Friend is new construction restaurant landing in Wayne’s bustling restaurant row. Designed by award-winning Stokes architecture (Provenance, Kalaya, etc.), we are centered around a charcoal-fired Josper grill and oven, and run by chefs who cut their teeth in some of the world’s greatest Michelin star restaurants.

This is a role for someone who understands that great restaurants are built in the dining room as much as in the kitchen—someone who leads with presence, sets the tone, and takes genuine pride in creating a place people want to return to again and again.

The ideal candidate is charismatic, hospitality-forward, and operationally sharp, with a strong point of view on service and a natural ability to connect with both guests and team members. This is a hands-on leadership role, working in close partnership with the chef to ensure a seamless and consistent experience from the first guest in to the last guest out.

You should be equally comfortable on the floor and in the numbers — able to build, mentor, and retain a strong team while maintaining a disciplined approach to the business.

What you’ll do:

• Lead the daily operations of a quality-driven restaurant with a strong regular following
• Set and maintain the tone of the dining room — warm, polished, and highly attentive without being formal
• Partner closely with culinary leadership to ensure alignment between kitchen and front of house
• Hire, develop, and mentor a team of managers and hourly staff, building a culture of accountability and care
• Oversee financial performance including labor, cost controls, and overall profitability
• Be a constant presence on the floor — anticipating needs, supporting the team, and engaging with guests

What we’re looking for:

• 6+ years of progressive leadership experience in well-regarded, chef-driven restaurants
• A strong foundation in hospitality — you know how to read a room, remember a guest, and recover a moment
• Experience building and leading high-performing teams with a focus on development and retention
• Solid financial acumen and comfort managing the business side of the restaurant
• A calm, confident presence and a genuine love of the work

Compensation & Benefits:

• Competitive base salary
• Quarterly bonus program
• Referral bonus programs
• Paid vacation and sick time
• Medical coverage