Food and Beverage Manager

Job Summary Become part of Restaurant Associates, the industry’s leading provider of dining and event catering for some of the nation's most prestigious museums, performing arts centers and corporations! Voted Glassdoor's Employee Choice Awards - Best Places to Work, This is R/A ! The Food & Beverage Manager position at La Mercerie exists at the intersection of hospitality, design, and culture, with a focused lens on the art and expression of beverage. Conceived by Roman and Williams, La Mercerie is not simply a restaurant, but part of a larger ecosystem that includes the adjacent Roman and Williams Guild, where dining, retail, and craftsmanship exist in constant dialogue. Within this environment, the beverage program becomes an extension of the space itself: a curated expression of refined French gastronomy, global wine culture, and artisanal design. From a thoughtfully composed French wine list to cocktails and non‑alcoholic offerings served in handcrafted glassware, every detail contributes to an experience where flavor, story, and setting are inseparable. This role will ensure that the beverage program operates seamlessly within that ecosystem, creating a guest experience where each pour, pairing, and interaction reflects precision, beauty, and intention. As Food & Beverage Manager , you will steward the daily rhythm and long‑term vision of the beverage program, balancing operational excellence with creative direction. This role requires a leader with deep expertise in wine and beverage, a visible and engaging presence on the floor, and the ability to inspire a team in delivering experiences rooted in both French tradition and contemporary hospitality. Beyond execution, you will collaborate closely with culinary, service, and Guild teams to ensure the beverage program is fully integrated into the broader guest journey, where cuisine, design, and culture converge. The result is a beverage experience defined not only by technical excellence, but by storytelling, craftsmanship, and the elevated simplicity that defines La Mercerie. Key Responsibilities Oversee and continuously evolve the wine program, including list development, vendor relationships, and cellar management. Curate a thoughtful and balanced selection of spirits, aperitifs, and non‑alcoholic beverages, reflective of French tradition and global inspiration. Ensure the beverage program complements the culinary vision and seasonal menu changes. Maintain deep knowledge of wine regions, producers, vintages, and emerging trends. Act as a floor presence, engaging with guests to elevate the beverage and wine experience. Provide expert recommendations and storytelling that enhances guest connection and satisfaction. Support service standards that reflect warmth, precision, and attention to detail. Address guest feedback with care, ensuring a consistently refined experience. Train and mentor front‑of‑house teams on wine knowledge, beverage pairing, and service techniques. Foster a culture of curiosity and learning through tastings, education sessions, and vendor partnerships. Support team members in developing confidence and fluency in beverage offerings. Manage beverage inventory, ordering, and cost control to ensure operational efficiency. Monitor beverage sales performance and identify opportunities for growth and innovation. Partner with leadership on pricing strategies, profitability, and program sustainability. Work collaboratively with General Manager, Executive Chef, and service leadership to ensure alignment across all aspects of the guest experience. Contribute to the overall culture of excellence, inclusivity, and creativity within the team. Uphold health, safety, and compliance standards related to beverage operations. Qualifications A genuine passion for wine, beverage culture, and hospitality excellence. Significant experience in a fine dining or luxury hospitality environment, with a focus on beverage or wine programs. Strong knowledge of Old World wines, particularly French regions, with curiosity for global producers. Demonstrated ability to lead, train, and inspire teams in a collaborative and inclusive environment. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a guest‑first mindset. Financial acumen, including inventory management and cost control. Sommelier certification or equivalent experience is highly valued, though not required. Restaurant Associates is a member of Compass Group USA Compass Group is an equal opportunity employer. At Compass, we are committed to treating all Applicants and Associates fairly based on their abilities, achievements, and experience without regard to race, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by law. Qualified candidates must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily with or without a reasonable accommodation. Disclaimer: this job post is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all essential responsibilities, skills, tasks, or requirements associated with this position. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the position posted, the Company reserves the right to modify or change the essential functions of the job based on business necessity. We will consider for employment all qualified applicants, including those with a criminal history (including relevant driving history), in a manner consistent with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the City of Los Angeles’ Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, and the New York Fair Chance Act. Certain positions may require Florida Level 2 background screening. Details: Associates at Restaurant Associates are offered many fantastic benefits. Medical Vision Life Insurance/ AD Disability Insurance Retirement PlanPaid Time Off Holiday Time Off (varies by site/state) Associate Shopping Program Health and Wellness Programs Discount Marketplace Identity Theft Protection Pet Insurance Employee Assistance Program Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) Personal Leave Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis. Restaurant Associates maintains a drug‑free workplace. Associates may also be eligible for paid and/or unpaid time off benefits in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. For positions in Washington State, Maryland, or to be performed Remotely, click here or copy/paste the link below for paid time off benefits information. #J-18808-Ljbffr