FOH - Head Bartender

Saho Hospitality Group•New York, NY

32d•Onsite

About The Position

This person is responsible for overseeing and maintaining the bar. They will partner with the Director of Cocktail Programming to carry out and execute a cocktail program that reflects fine dining standards, including classic cocktails with precision and seasonal creations with elegance. The role involves collaborating in menu updates and cocktail development, supporting management in beverage operations and service, and maintaining bar organization, mise-en-place, beverage par levels, and cleanliness. The Head Bartender will lead and inspire a team of bartenders and barbacks, deliver polished guest service, conduct trainings, and support FOH management, sommelier, and culinary teams. They will also provide tailored beverage experiences for private events and VIP guests.

Requirements

Proven experience as a Head Bartender or Lead Mixologist in a fine dining or luxury hospitality environment.
Mastery of classic cocktail techniques, premium spirits, and luxury bar standards.
Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to mentor a team.
Impeccable grooming, professionalism, and attention to detail.
Passion for creating memorable guest experiences through hospitality.
The ability to work late nights, weekends, and holidays.
Adherence to cleanliness, safety, and sanitation standards.
Ability to communicate effectively in English and interact with team members and guests.
Time management and multitasking skills required to manage high-volume production.
Discipline to follow set standards.
Must hold or be able to provide the New York City Department of Health (DOH) Food Protection Permit within the first days of employment.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of wine, vermouths, and amari is an advantage.

Responsibilities

Oversee and maintain the bar.
Carry out and execute a cocktail program that reflects fine dining standards.
Collaborate in the creative process of menu updates and cocktail development.
Support Management in leading beverage operations and service of the bar.
Maintain bar organization, mise-en-place, beverage par levels, and cleanliness.
Lead and inspire a team of bartenders and barbacks, ensuring efficiency and refinement.
Deliver polished guest service at the bar, anticipating needs and engaging with discretion.
Conduct tastings, pre-shift trainings, and skill-development sessions for the team.
Support FOH management, sommelier, and culinary teams to create harmonized pairings and seasonal experiences.
Provide tailored beverage experiences for private events and VIP guests.