Experienced Server Upscale Mediterranean Restaurant Sacramento

Job Description

Job Description

About Aiona

Opening in late April in the heart of downtown Sacramento, Aiona is a bold new culinary destination celebrating the vibrant traditions of Mediterranean cuisine through the ancient art of wood-fired cooking. Featuring an open kitchen, a 3,000-bottle wine cellar curated by an Advanced Sommelier, and refined indoor and outdoor dining spaces, Aiona offers an immersive, upscale experience unlike anything else in the city.

Our mission is to bring world-class food, wine, and hospitality to Sacramento while becoming a premier destination for dining and private events.

Position Overview

We are seeking experienced and polished Server to join our opening team and deliver elevated, professional service during dinner and evening shifts. This role will focus on business dinners, government and lobbyist clientele, pre-theater guests, and private events , providing a level of hospitality that matches Aiona’s Mediterranean-inspired menu and wine program.

Servers will work closely with ownership, management, and both FOH and BOH leadership to ensure seamless service, thoughtful pacing, and memorable guest experiences in the dining room and on the patio.

Responsibilities

·         Provide warm, professional, and attentive table service during lunch and dinner shifts, embodying Aiona’s standards of hospitality.

·         Greet, guide, and educate guests on menu items, daily features, and Mediterranean flavors, making confident recommendations based on guest preferences.

·         Present and describe food and beverage offerings, including cocktails and wines by the glass, with accuracy and enthusiasm.

·         Manage full sections efficiently, including order taking, coursing, timing, check-backs, and payment handling.

·         Coordinate with bartenders and the sommelier team to support wine service, bottle presentation, and basic pairing suggestions for business and special-occasion diners.

·         Collaborate closely with food runners, bussers, and expo to ensure accurate, timely delivery of dishes and proper pacing for business groups and larger parties.

·         Maintain a discreet, professional tone suitable for political, corporate, and VIP guests; read the room and adjust approach accordingly.

·         Support private dining and special events by following BEOs and event notes, executing set menus, family-style service, and specific timing requests as directed.

·         Ensure tables and side stations are properly set, stocked, and maintained throughout service; assist with opening and closing side work.

·         Accurately use the POS system to enter orders, handle modifications/allergies, process payments, and follow all cash-handling procedures.

·         Practice responsible alcohol service, including proper ID checks and alerting management if intervention is needed.

·         Communicate clearly with hosts, managers, and the kitchen regarding special requests, allergies, pacing, and guest concerns.

·         Handle guest complaints or service issues calmly and professionally, involving a manager when needed.

Qualifications

·         2–3+ years of serving experience in an upscale or casual fine dining environment.

·         Strong food and beverage knowledge, with interest in Mediterranean cuisine and comfort talking about wine and cocktails.

·         Proven ability to manage a busy section during high-volume evening service while maintaining composure, accuracy, and hospitality.

·         Excellent communication and guest-facing skills; polished, professional demeanor with business and VIP clientele.

·         Familiarity with restaurant POS systems (Toast or similar a plus).

·         Team-oriented, with a collaborative mindset and willingness to support other FOH roles as needed.

·         Reliable and punctual, with the ability to work a lunch and dinner service including evenings, weekends, holidays, and major event nights.

·         Hands-on, “no job too small” attitude, including helping with side work, polishing, and basic setup/breakdown tasks.