Bar Manager-Upscale Steakhouse

Bar Manager

We are seeking an experienced and passionate Bar Manager to lead the beverage program for our upscale, polished steakhouse. This individual will be responsible for overseeing all bar operations while creating an exceptional guest experience through innovative cocktails, curated wine selections, premium spirits knowledge, and strong leadership.

The ideal candidate is a hospitality-driven professional with extensive knowledge of cocktails, wine, beer, and spirits, combined with the operational expertise necessary to lead both the bar and restaurant floor. This position requires a hands-on leader who can develop seasonal beverage menus, drive sales, train team members, and serve as a Manager on Duty during restaurant shifts.

Beverage Program Leadership

• Oversee all daily bar operations to ensure exceptional guest experiences and efficient service.
• Develop, execute, and maintain a high-quality craft cocktail program that complements the steakhouse dining experience.
• Create and introduce seasonal cocktail menus featuring current industry trends, premium ingredients, and innovative techniques.
• Maintain comprehensive knowledge of wines, beer styles, spirits, and cocktail preparation methods.
• Collaborate with ownership and culinary leadership to create beverage pairings and special event offerings.
• Monitor beverage quality, presentation standards, and consistency across all shifts.
• Manage liquor, wine, beer, and non-alcoholic beverage inventories.
• Establish pars, ordering procedures, and inventory controls to minimize waste and maximize profitability.
• Maintain compliance with all state and local liquor laws, health regulations, and company policies.

Leadership & Team Development

• Recruit, train, coach, and develop bartenders, servers, and support staff.
• Conduct ongoing beverage education and product knowledge training.
• Foster a culture of hospitality, accountability, teamwork, and excellence.
• Evaluate employee performance and provide regular feedback and coaching.
• Assist with scheduling and labor management to meet operational and financial goals.

Restaurant Operations

• Serve as Manager on Duty and lead restaurant shifts as assigned.
• Support front-of-house operations, including dining room management, guest relations, and service execution.
• Address guest concerns professionally and ensure complete guest satisfaction.
• Maintain high standards of service, cleanliness, safety, and professionalism throughout the restaurant.
• Partner with culinary and management teams to ensure seamless execution of daily operations.
• Assist in achieving financial objectives, including beverage sales, labor management, and profitability goals.

Financial & Administrative Responsibilities

• Analyze beverage sales trends and identify opportunities for growth.
• Manage beverage costs and inventory variances.
• Assist with budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting.
• Develop strategies to increase beverage sales and enhance the overall guest experience.
• Maintain accurate records and ensure compliance with company standards.

Qualifications

Required

• Minimum 3 years of management experience in an upscale, polished casual, fine dining, or steakhouse environment.
• Extensive knowledge of wine, beer, spirits, and craft cocktail preparation.
• Proven experience developing and implementing seasonal cocktail programs.
• Experience managing beverage inventories, ordering, and cost controls.
• Strong leadership and team development skills.
• Ability to effectively lead restaurant shifts and manage front-of-house operations.
• Excellent communication, organization, and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-volume hospitality environment.
• Availability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as business demands require.

Preferred but NOT required

• Sommelier certification or advanced wine education.
• Certified Specialist of Wine (CSW), WSET, BarSmarts, or equivalent beverage certifications.
• Experience with steakhouse concepts and wine-focused dining programs.
• Knowledge of beverage menu engineering and profitability analysis.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary plus bonus opportunity
• Health and Dental Insurance
• Career growth and advancement opportunities
• Professional development and beverage education
• A dynamic, team-oriented hospitality environment focused on excellence

If you are passionate about hospitality, craft beverages, and leading high-performing teams, we invite you to join our steakhouse and help create unforgettable guest experiences.