Bartender

MIKA Bartender Position

MIKA Coral Gables, by acclaimed Chef Michael White, brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean Riviera to the heart of Coral Gables. Inspired by the coastal traditions of Italy and France, MIKA combines exceptional cuisine, a thoughtfully curated wine and cocktail program, and warm, sophisticated hospitality.

Our philosophy is simple: Tastes of the Riviera. Hospitality of Home.

We believe luxury hospitality should feel effortless, genuine, and welcoming. Every team member plays an essential role in creating memorable guest experiences.

Position Summary

MIKA Coral Gables is seeking an experienced, passionate, and hospitality-driven Bartender to join our beverage team.

The ideal candidate combines strong mixology skills, extensive beverage knowledge, attention to detail, and a natural ability to connect with guests. Our bartenders are not only responsible for preparing exceptional cocktails but also for creating an engaging, refined, and personalized experience that reflects MIKA's hospitality standards.

This position requires professionalism, creativity, teamwork, and the ability to perform efficiently in a high-volume, upscale dining environment.

Key Responsibilities

Guest Experience & Hospitality

• Deliver warm, attentive, and personalized service to every guest.
• Create an engaging and welcoming atmosphere at the bar.
• Build relationships with regular guests while recognizing preferences and anticipating needs.
• Confidently explain cocktail ingredients, preparation methods, and beverage recommendations.
• Guide guests through MIKA's cocktail, wine, and spirits selections.
• Maintain a polished, professional appearance and positive attitude throughout service.
• Address guest concerns promptly and communicate with management when necessary.

Cocktail Preparation & Beverage Knowledge

• Prepare and serve classic cocktails, signature creations, and specialty beverages according to MIKA's recipes and presentation standards.
• Demonstrate strong knowledge of spirits, wines, beers, aperitifs, digestifs, and Mediterranean-inspired cocktails.
• Maintain consistency in recipes, measurements, garnishes, glassware, and presentation.
• Understand flavor profiles and recommend appropriate beverage pairings with MIKA's cuisine.
• Participate in cocktail tastings, menu updates, and ongoing beverage education.
• Stay informed about cocktail trends while respecting classic bartending techniques.

Bar Operations & Service Standards

• Complete opening, closing, and side-work duties according to established procedures.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and fully stocked bar throughout service.
• Prepare garnishes, syrups, mixers, and other ingredients according to established standards.
• Ensure timely and accurate preparation of beverages for bar guests, dining room service, lounge, and private events.
• Operate the Toast POS system accurately, ensuring all beverages are entered and properly accounted for.
• Follow proper cash-handling, payment-processing, and check-closing procedures.
• Monitor inventory levels, minimize waste, and communicate shortages to the Beverage Director.
• Maintain proper rotation, storage, and handling of all beverage products.
• Handle glassware, bar equipment, and service tools with care.

Teamwork & Collaboration

• Work closely with servers, barbacks, drink runners, sommeliers, and management to ensure seamless service.
• Communicate effectively with the kitchen and service teams regarding guest preferences, allergies, and special requests.
• Support private events, special celebrations, and high-volume service periods.
• Assist with training and mentoring new beverage team members when requested.
• Participate in pre-shift meetings, beverage training, and team development activities.
• Contribute to a positive, respectful, and collaborative work environment.

Safety & Compliance

• Follow all Florida alcohol service regulations and responsible beverage service practices.
• Verify guest identification and legal drinking age when required.
• Recognize signs of intoxication and communicate concerns to management.
• Maintain compliance with food safety, sanitation, and health department standards.
• Follow MIKA's policies regarding beverage control, complimentary items, and inventory accountability.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Minimum 23 years of bartending experience, preferably in upscale, fine-dining, or high-volume restaurants.
• Strong knowledge of classic cocktails, premium spirits, wine, and beverage service.
• Experience working in a full-service restaurant with both bar seating and dining room beverage production.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and guest engagement skills.
• Ability to multitask and maintain composure during busy service periods.
• Strong attention to detail, organization, and time management.
• Experience with Toast POS or similar restaurant systems preferred.
• Flexible availability, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 40 pounds.
• Knowledge of responsible alcohol service and applicable food safety standards.

Ideal Candidate

We are looking for someone who is:

• Passionate: Genuinely enthusiastic about cocktails, spirits, hospitality, and continuous learning.
• Engaging: Naturally charismatic and capable of creating meaningful guest connections.
• Detail-Oriented: Committed to consistency, precision, and beautiful presentation.
• Professional: Polished, dependable, and composed under pressure.
• Team-Oriented: Supportive, respectful, and willing to assist wherever needed.
• Creative: Curious about ingredients, techniques, and new beverage experiences.
• Humble & Genuine: Confident in their knowledge without being pretentious.

What We Offer

• Opportunity to work in a chef-driven, upscale Mediterranean restaurant.
• Exposure to a curated cocktail, spirits, and Old World wine program.
• Ongoing beverage education, tastings, and professional development.
• A collaborative environment that values hospitality, creativity, and excellence.
• Opportunities for growth within the restaurant.

Join the MIKA Team

At MIKA, bartending is more than making drinks. It is about creating an experience, sharing a story, and making every guest feel at home.

We are looking for individuals who take pride in their craft, embrace teamwork, and understand that exceptional hospitality is found in the smallest details.

MIKA Coral Gables is an Equal Opportunity Employer.