Sommelier

Cafe Zaffri, affectionately known as “Zaf’s,” is a culinary venture from the renowned team behind New York City favorites Raf’s and The Musket Room. Situated within The Twenty Two New York—a luxury hotel and private members’ club in Union Square—the expansive restaurant welcomes the public with a menu inspired by modern interpretations of Levantine cuisine and its vibrant culinary heritage.

Café Zaffri is seeking a passionate and knowledgeable Sommelier to elevate our wine program and guest experience. This role is ideal for a hospitality professional with deep expertise in wine, a collaborative spirit, and a commitment to exceptional service. As a key member of the bar and service teams, you’ll curate thoughtful wine offerings, lead staff education, and ensure seamless wine service that reflects our brand’s high standards.

Key Responsibilities

Wine Program & Service

• Partner with the Beverage Director to develop and evolve a dynamic wine program aligned with seasonal menus.
• Deliver expert wine service and personalized recommendations to guests, enhancing their dining experience.
• Manage wine inventory, budget, and purchasing to ensure operational and financial success.
• Lead wine education initiatives, including pre-shift briefings and training sessions with staff and brand partners.
• Maintain deep knowledge of food and beverage offerings, including pairings and preparation methods.
• Support all aspects of service to ensure a smooth and elevated guest experience.

Guest Relations & Team Support

• Provide warm, professional hospitality in all guest interactions.
• Handle inquiries, special requests, and concerns with discretion and care, escalating when necessary.
• Collaborate with FOH staff to uphold service standards and reinforce Café Zaffri’s hospitality culture.
• Attend staff and leadership meetings and contribute to team development.

Compliance & Safety

• Adhere to all health, safety, and alcohol service regulations, including age verification and sanitation standards.
• Monitor equipment and workspace cleanliness, reporting any issues promptly.
• Maintain proper storage and handling procedures in line with DOH requirements.

Menu & Product Knowledge

• Maintain expert-level knowledge of Café Zaffri’s wine list, food menu, and beverage philosophy.
• Communicate allergy and dietary information clearly to staff and guests.

Qualifications

• Minimum 1 year as a sommelier in a high-caliber hospitality setting.
• Strong wine knowledge and understanding of culinary concepts.
• TIPS certification (required within 60 days of hire).
• Proficiency in POS systems and inventory management tools.
• Excellent communication, time management, and problem-solving skills.
• Adaptability in a fast-paced, guest-focused environment.
• Polished presentation and a passion for hospitality.
• Flexible availability including nights, weekends, and holidays.

Essential Functions and Physical Demands 
This job requires meeting specific physical demands to perform essential duties effectively. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform those essential functions. 

While performing the essential duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to:   

• Exert well-paced mobility for periods of up to 12 hours per day. 
• Lift and carry up to 50 pounds. 
• Frequently stand, walk, reach, bend, stoop, push, pull, and kneel. 
• Frequently utilize the stairs, often while lifting and carrying heavy items.   
• Occasionally crouch and climb. 
• Be exposed to hazards including, but not limited to, burns, cuts, scrapes, and frequent exposure of hands to water. 
• Withstand fluctuations in temperature within the work environment, from high heat to below freezing. 
• Be exposed to common allergens and unique ingredients. 
• Handle heavy equipment and machinery. 
• May be asked to travel to visit vendors or different company locations. 

Benefits include:

• 401(k) with employer match
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance after 60 days of employment
• Paid Time Off
• Dining discounts
• Continuing education

Little Rest Hospitality LLC is dedicated to fostering an inclusive workplace environment where all individuals have equal opportunities. We value talent, skills, and potential, and strive to create an atmosphere that promotes diversity and equality.