Lead Bartender

LEAD BARTENDER
Reports to: GM, AGM
Direct Reports: Bar Staff  About Us:

Sonico will be a new upscale dining concept from the Avondale Hospitality team. Located in the heart of West Hollywood, Sonico will be an energetic addition to the neighborhood's dining and nightlife scene. 

Built on the deep experience of our team, we’ve distilled the best of our past experiences and shaped them into something new. Our cuisine combines traditional Japanese techniques with modern, globally inspired flavors, creating a dining experience that is both unique and unforgettable

THE ROLE
We are currently seeking an experienced, service-driven Lead Bartender to join our team. Our restaurant is built on thoughtful hospitality, precision, and a commitment to creating memorable guest experiences, with the ambition of redefining “the night out” in Los Angeles. We are seeking a candidate who brings both exceptional bartending ability and leadership presence to help drive an elevated beverage program through the final steps of our opening process. 

This role is ideal for a highly skilled bartender who is ready for their next step towards directing a beverage program: someone who thrives in service, immerses in craft and creativity, and is equally excited about building systems, and helping shape the direction of the program. The Lead Bartender is not a manager, but this position carries meaningful responsibility and influence. You will act as a key leader within the bar team and a trusted partner to restaurant leadership.

POSITION SUMMARY
The Lead Bartender is responsible for supporting the overall success of the beverage program through cocktail development, bar organization, staff education, recipe documentation, production systems, and leadership on the floor. This individual will serve as a standard bearer for service, execution, and professionalism while remaining highly active in day-to-day operations.

The right candidate is both creative and disciplined: someone who can develop an outstanding cocktail, communicate it clearly to the team, organize the systems needed to execute it, and lead busy services with confidence and composure while holding themselves and our team of bartenders to the high standards we've set for ourselves.

They will report to the GM and management staff regarding any issues, operational ideas & staff concerns.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Beverage Program Support

• Contribute to the development and evolution of the cocktail program, including signature drinks and seasonal offerings
• Assist with recipe costing to ensure cocktails are both compelling and financially sound 
• Document recipes, preparation methods, glassware, garnish standards, and cocktail descriptions with clarity and consistency
• Help plan and execute new menu rollouts, including recipe testing, staff education, and operational readiness
• Oversee or assist with production of syrups, infusions, batched ingredients, and other specialty components
• Stay current on beverage trends, spirits knowledge, cocktail techniques, and developments within the hospitality community

Training and Team Development

• Lead by example behind the bar through strong technique, urgency, cleanliness, and hospitality
• Conduct staff tastings and help train bartenders and service staff on new cocktails, spirits, beer, wine, and beverage standards
• Create and maintain training tools, recipe guides, prep documents, and sidework materials
• Support the development of a knowledgeable, confident, and consistent bar team
• Help build a culture of accountability, professionalism, and pride in the beverage program

Operations and Systems

• Help organize and improve day-to-day bar systems, including prep lists, checklists, pars, ordering sheets, and production guides
• Assist in monitoring inventory levels and communicating product needs in a timely and organized manner
• Support ordering processes, vendor communication, and product sourcing as needed
• Help maintain clean, efficient, and well-stocked bar stations at all times
• Identify opportunities to improve workflow, consistency, and bar execution during service and prep

Service Leadership

• Act as the lead bartender during high-volume shifts, peak service periods, and private events
• Set the tone for professionalism, hospitality, and teamwork during service
• Partner closely with the leadership team to ensure smooth service execution and an exceptional guest experience
• Serve as a key point of communication for bar-related needs, updates, and standards
• Uphold all health, safety, sanitation, and responsible alcohol service standards

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3-4 years bartending experience in a high-volume, craft cocktail, fine dining, or upscale hospitality environment
• Strong spirits, classic cocktail, beer, and wine knowledge
• Ability to create balanced cocktails and an understanding of classic and modern techniques
• Experience training or mentoring other bartenders and service team members strongly preferred
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Highly organized with strong attention to detail and follow-through
• Comfortable using spreadsheets, inventory systems, and digital tools for communication and operations
• Ability to remain composed, professional, and solution-oriented in a fast-paced environment
• Natural leadership presence with a team-first mindset
• Passion for hospitality, education, and continuous improvement

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods of time
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds
• Ability to reach, bend, stoop, and move quickly in a busy bar environment
• Ability to work nights, weekends, and holidays as business demands require