Job Description
Job Description
Bar Manager – Full-Service Restaurant & Bar
Location: Palo Alto, CA
Job Type: Full-Time
Compensation: $80,000–$100,000 annually + performance bonus
About Us
We are a high-volume, full-service restaurant and bar seeking an experienced Bar Manager to lead our beverage program and bar team. This position is ideal for a hospitality professional who is passionate about craft cocktails, guest experience, team development, and driving beverage sales.
The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of bar operations, maintaining exceptional service standards, and ensuring profitability through effective inventory and cost management.
Position Summary
The Bar Manager is responsible for the daily operation of the bar, including staff leadership, beverage quality, inventory control, ordering, scheduling, training, and guest satisfaction. This is a hands-on leadership role requiring active floor presence and strong operational skills.
Responsibilities Leadership & Team Development
- Recruit, hire, train, and develop bartenders and bar support staff.
- Create schedules and manage labor costs.
- Conduct ongoing training on cocktails, spirits, wine, beer, and service standards.
- Foster a positive and professional team culture.
- Hold staff accountable for performance and service expectations.
Beverage Program Management
- Oversee cocktail, wine, beer, and spirits programs.
- Develop seasonal cocktails and beverage promotions.
- Maintain beverage quality and consistency.
- Evaluate product offerings and identify opportunities to increase sales.
Inventory & Cost Control
- Manage weekly inventory counts and ordering.
- Monitor pour costs, liquor variance, and waste.
- Maintain target beverage cost percentages.
- Build relationships with distributors and vendors.
- Ensure proper storage, rotation, and handling of products.
Guest Experience
- Deliver exceptional hospitality and bar service.
- Engage with guests and build relationships with regulars.
- Resolve guest concerns professionally and efficiently.
- Maintain a welcoming, energetic atmosphere.
Operations & Compliance
- Ensure compliance with all alcohol service laws and company policies.
- Maintain cleanliness, organization, and safety standards.
- Oversee opening and closing procedures.
- Assist with restaurant operations as needed.
Qualifications
- Minimum 3 years of bar management experience.
- Strong knowledge of spirits, wine, beer, and craft cocktails.
- Experience managing beverage inventories and cost controls.
- Proven ability to lead and motivate teams.
- Strong organizational and communication skills.
- Experience with POS systems and scheduling software.
- Ability to work nights, weekends, and holidays.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in upscale casual or high-volume restaurants.
- Wine certification or advanced beverage education.
- Established relationships with beverage vendors and distributors.
- Experience creating successful cocktail programs.
Benefits
- Competitive salary
- Performance-based bonus opportunities
- Paid vacation
- Employee dining privileges
- Career advancement opportunities
- Supportive ownership team