Bartender

Le Colonial Lake Forest

Nestled in the heart of historic Lake Forest, Le Colonial is more than a restaurant—it is an escape into the romance, sophistication, and timeless elegance of 1920s Southeast Asia. Every detail has been intentionally curated, from the warm glow of our dining room and lush atmosphere to the precision of every cocktail served across the bar.

Our guests don't simply come here for dinner.

They come to celebrate life's milestones, close important business deals, reconnect with old friends, impress a first date, and create lasting memories. Every interaction matters, and every cocktail is an extension of our hospitality.

That is why we are searching for an exceptional  Mixologist/Bartender —someone who understands that behind every perfectly stirred Martini, every balanced Negroni, every meticulously crafted signature cocktail, and every genuine smile across the bar lies an opportunity to create an unforgettable guest experience.

This Is More Than Bartending

We are seeking a hospitality professional who views bartending as a craft, leadership as a responsibility, and service as an art form.

This role is designed for someone who takes genuine pride in their work—someone who believes every garnish has a purpose, every guest deserves recognition, and every shift is an opportunity to elevate the standard of excellence.

As one of the most visible ambassadors of Le Colonial, you will create memorable guest experiences while contributing to a culture of professionalism, teamwork, and continuous improvement.

The Opportunity

As our Mixologist/Bartender, you will shape the guest experience from the moment someone approaches the bar until they leave our restaurant.

Your responsibilities extend far beyond preparing exceptional cocktails. You will become a trusted guide for guests exploring our beverage program, a collaborative partner to our management team, and a leader who sets the standard for hospitality throughout every service.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver polished, personalized hospitality that makes every guest feel genuinely welcomed and valued.
• Prepare classic and contemporary cocktails with technical precision, consistency, and attention to detail while executing Le Colonial's beverage standards.
• Develop a comprehensive knowledge of our culinary menu, ingredients, wine program, spirits, and overall philosophy to provide thoughtful food and beverage recommendations.
• Provide attentive, professional table and bar service by accurately taking orders, entering them into the POS system, and ensuring food and beverages are delivered according to our service standards.
• Support cocktail lounge operations by creating an engaging, welcoming atmosphere while delivering exceptional dining service.
• Build meaningful relationships with returning guests by remembering names, preferences, and favorite cocktails whenever possible.
• Lead by example during every service, maintaining composure, professionalism, and a positive attitude in both high-volume and intimate dining environments.
• Maintain impeccable cleanliness, organization, sanitation, and presentation throughout all bar and lounge areas.
• Assist with inventory management, receiving, product rotation, ordering, pars, and cost-control initiatives to support efficient operations.
• Collaborate with management on seasonal cocktail development, menu enhancements, and ongoing beverage programming.
• Ensure compliance with all responsible alcohol service policies and health department regulations.

The Professional We're Looking For

The ideal candidate possesses both technical expertise and genuine hospitality.

You are someone who:

• Has several years of experience in upscale, luxury, or fine dining restaurants.
• Demonstrates extensive knowledge of classic cocktails, premium spirits, wine, beer, and contemporary mixology techniques.
• Understands how to balance speed, efficiency, and precision without compromising quality.
• Maintains exceptional composure during fast-paced service.
• Takes complete ownership of the guest experience from arrival through departure.
• Communicates with confidence, humility, warmth, and professionalism.
• Leads through consistency, teamwork, and example rather than ego.
• Has a passion for hospitality and continually seeks opportunities to learn, improve, and refine their craft.
• Values organization, cleanliness, accountability, and attention to detail.

What We Offer

We recognize that exceptional hospitality professionals have choices. Our goal is to provide an environment where talented people can build rewarding, long-term careers while working alongside passionate professionals who share a commitment to excellence.

We offer:

• Competitive compensation with exceptional earning potential.
• A loyal and discerning clientele that values quality, professionalism, and genuine hospitality.
• A refined, beautifully designed workplace where craftsmanship is celebrated.
• Opportunities for growth within an established and expanding luxury restaurant group.
• Collaboration with accomplished culinary, wine, and hospitality professionals.
• Opportunities to contribute creatively to seasonal cocktail development and beverage programming.
• Employee dining privileges.
• Ongoing education through spirit tastings, vendor partnerships, wine education, and beverage training.
• A culture built on mutual respect, accountability, teamwork, and excellence.

Join the Le Colonial Team

If you believe hospitality is more than service, if craftsmanship matters, and if creating memorable experiences brings you genuine satisfaction, we would love to meet you.

Join us in continuing the tradition of excellence that defines Le Colonial Lake Forest, where every cocktail tells a story and every guest leaves with an unforgettable experience.

Physical Demands:

This position is very active and requires standing for long periods of time. The position may require occasional lifting of products weighing up to 20 pounds.

Position Type and Expected Hours of Work:

This position regularly requires long hours and a schedule that fluctuates based on business needs.