Bartender / Server

Position Opportunity

Cornerstone is seeking an experienced and hospitality-driven Bartender / Server to join our front-of-house team and contribute to our beverage program.

Founded and operated by chef-owners Christine & Nick Kondra since 2015, Cornerstone has become one of the most sought-after restaurants in the Philadelphia area. Over the past decade, we have built a reputation for exceptional guest experiences paired with an award-winning wine and cocktail program. Recognized regionally and nationally, Cornerstone continues to evolve while staying grounded in thoughtful, intentional hospitality.

This role offers the opportunity to contribute to a refined bar and dining room experience while working closely with ownership and the service team. The Bartender / Server will play an important role in delivering exceptional guest interactions, executing a high-level cocktail program, and supporting the restaurant’s wine and service standards on the floor.

This position is integral to both the bar and dining room experience, including the Chef’s Counter. The ideal candidate is equally comfortable behind the bar and on the floor — capable of delivering elevated cocktails, guiding guests through pairings, and providing attentive, professional service.

This is an exciting opportunity for a hospitality professional who thrives in a high-level dining environment, enjoys both craft cocktails and service, and wants to grow within a thoughtful, globally inspired beverage program.

At Cornerstone, growth and curiosity are foundational. Christine & Nick Kondra have spent over a decade refining their craft, drawing inspiration from years working with chef-owners in Boston and traveling internationally to explore the world’s leading restaurants, bars, wineries, and hospitality cultures.

Their commitment to learning continues through regular global travel, where they immerse themselves in new techniques, traditions, and perspectives. Most recently, their time in Japan deepened their appreciation for culinary artistry, visiting their A5 Wagyu farmers & Sake producers in the Tohoku region and the nuances of food and beverage pairing—insights that continue to influence and elevate the Cornerstone experience.

That exploration continues to shape every aspect of the Cornerstone experience. Our service philosophy emphasizes precision, education, and storytelling — connecting guests not only to the food and beverage on the table, but to the people, places, and traditions behind them.

The Bartender / Server plays an essential role in this experience. Whether behind the bar or engaging guests on the floor, this role is about creating connection — presenting cocktails, spirits, and wines with intention, and ensuring every interaction feels seamless, informed, and memorable.

This role requires a balance of technical bartending skill and polished service execution. We are seeking someone who takes pride in excellence, values continuous learning, and is energized by the opportunity to elevate every guest experience.

The Bartender / Server is responsible for delivering exceptional service and executing the bar program with consistency and attention to detail. This role supports both bar operations and floor service, ensuring a seamless and engaging guest experience.

Working closely with ownership and the service team, the Bartender / Server helps maintain the standards of Cornerstone’s hospitality while ensuring guests feel welcomed, guided, and inspired throughout their dining experience.

Guest Experience & Service
Provide refined, attentive service aligned with Cornerstone’s hospitality standards.
Guide guests through multi-course dining experiences, including Chef’s Counter service.
Create engaging and educational interactions around cocktails, spirits, wine, and menu offerings.
Maintain strong awareness of pacing, steps of service, and guest needs throughout the dining experience.

Bar Program Execution & Cocktail Service
Execute daily bar operations and ensure consistency in cocktail preparation and presentation.
Prepare classic and seasonal cocktails with precision, efficiency, and attention to detail.
Maintain strong knowledge of spirits, ingredients, techniques, and cocktail history.
Ensure bar mise en place, cleanliness, and organization are consistently maintained.

Beverage Knowledge & Guest Engagement
Act as an ambassador of the beverage program, including cocktails, spirits, and wine.
Confidently guide guests through beverage selections and pairing recommendations.
Present beverages with knowledge of origin, ingredients, and production methods.
Support wine service standards including opening, decanting, and presentation when needed.

Team Collaboration
Work collaboratively with the front-of-house team to ensure seamless service.
Communicate effectively with management regarding service flow and guest feedback.
Support team members to maintain consistency in service and hospitality standards.

Operational Support
Assist with opening and closing responsibilities for both bar and dining room.
Maintain organization and accuracy of bar tools, glassware, and storage areas.
Ensure all beverage equipment is properly maintained and service-ready.
Help uphold presentation and hospitality standards across all service areas.

Minimum 3–5 years of experience in upscale or fine dining restaurants and/or craft cocktail bars required.

Additional preferred experience:
Fine dining or luxury restaurant environments
High-volume craft cocktail programs
Chef’s counter or tasting menu service
Wine knowledge or sommelier-led environments

Advanced hospitality and service instincts
Strong cocktail and spirits knowledge
Foundational wine knowledge preferred
Confident guest communication and storytelling ability
Ability to multitask between bar execution and floor service
Strong team collaboration skills

Understanding of classic and modern cocktail techniques
Familiarity with spirits categories, production methods, and flavor profiles
Knowledge of wine basics and pairing principles
Understanding of fine dining service techniques and pacing

Warm, confident, and engaging with guests
Detail-oriented and committed to excellence
Passionate about cocktails, food, and hospitality culture
Calm and composed in a fast-paced environment
Curious and motivated to continue learning and growing

Environment
Fast-paced, high-end restaurant environment requiring evening, weekend, and holiday availability.

Physical Demands
Ability to stand for extended periods during service.
Ability to lift kegs, cases, and bar equipment (up to 40 lbs).
Ability to work quickly and efficiently in a confined bar space and throughout the dining room.

Health Insurance
Dental Insurance - voluntary
Vision Insurance - voluntary
Paid Time Off
Dining Discounts
Wellness Program ($65 per month)
Professional Enrichment Program ($100 per month)
Voluntary Benefits including disability, long-term care, cancer, and life & accident

Cornerstone is seeking a Bartender / Server who views hospitality as both craft and performance — someone who enjoys creating exceptional cocktails, connecting with guests, and contributing to a dynamic and memorable dining experience.