Lead Bartender

Lead Bartender

Full Time 

Tuesday-Saturday ; closed Sunday & Monday

Location

1 West Ave. Wayne, PA

Full Time • Hourly (Based on Experience) plus tips

Expected income of $85-$100K + benefits annually

Cornerstone has an amazing opportunity for a candidate to come in and work with a experienced team and our award winning bar and wine program!  

Cornerstone was founded and is operated by chef-owners, Christine & Nick Kondra since 2015.  The restaurant has become one of the most sought after restaurants in the Philadelphia area after 10 years focusing on amazing guest experience while pairing food with an award winning wine and cocktail program. The restaurant has garnered many regional and national awards from Wine Spectator and Christine Kondra as Best Sommelier on the Mainline of Philadelphia.

With over 1,000 bottles on our wine list and the opportunity to work with high end ingredients to help design our craft cocktail selection, Cornerstone is excited to recruit a skilled hospitality professional interested in take their career to the next level and we aim to support your professional development.

The Philosophy Behind the Cornerstone Program

At Cornerstone, growth and curiosity are foundational to the Cornerstone program. As chef-owners, Christine & Nick Kondra are deeply committed to continuous learning — traveling, studying global hospitality cultures, exploring distilleries and wineries, and immersing themselves in evolving culinary and cocktail movements to keep the Cornerstone program fresh, relevant, and inspired.

Most recently, after incorporating the next phase of Cornerstone’s growth, we returned from a two-week immersive experience in Japan. The trip allowed us to explore both traditional and modern cocktail culture, visit sake breweries, study precision-driven bartending techniques, and experience the intentional hospitality that defines Japanese service. While Japan is one example, this type of ongoing exploration is part of how we continually refine and elevate Cornerstone's framwork.

We are hands-on in building the cocktail menu and sourcing distinctive spirits and ingredients from around the world. Japanese elements — such as refined technique, balance, thoughtful presentation, and sake integration — are being incorporated as an extension of our commitment to craftsmanship and authenticity. But innovation does not stop there. Travel, education, and collaboration are constant drivers behind menu evolution.

The incoming Lead Bartender will work in tandem with our fantastic Head Bartender and collaborate closely with us to execute and grow this vision. We are looking for someone excited by our philosophy that is living, evolving, and shaped by global influence — someone who values precision, creativity, and the pursuit of excellence as much as we do.

Position Summary:

The Lead Bartender plays a key part in maintaining a high-quality guest experience while ensuring operational efficiency. The Lead Bartender will work closely with current lead bartender, along with the chef-owners to maintain an engaging, dynamic bar program and uphold the restaurant’s standards for excellence. 

Creative Cocktail Development:

• Lead the creation of seasonal and signature cocktail menus, ensuring beverages reflect the restaurant's vision and are aligned with current trends.
• Collaborate with the culinary team to pair drinks with menu offerings.

Inventory and Stock Management:

• Oversee ordering and inventory control of all bar-related supplies including alcohol, mixers, and glassware.
• Implement cost control measures and monitor stock levels to minimize waste and optimize efficiency.

Guest Interaction:

• Engage with guests to ensure a memorable experience, recommend beverages, and handle feedback or concerns effectively.
• Ensure the bar provides a welcoming and friendly atmosphere.
• Cornerstone has established guest loyalty from all over the world which encourages innovation and curiosity in not only the cocktails, but the conversations. 

Compliance and Safety:

• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations regarding alcohol service.
• Maintain policies related to responsible alcohol service and ensure staff adhere to safety protocols.

Quality Control:

• Maintain consistent standards of drink preparation and presentation.
• Conduct regular quality checks and tastings to ensure that all beverages meet the restaurant's high standards.

Bar Maintenance:

• Ensure the bar area is clean, organized, and stocked, ready for each shift.
• Oversee maintenance of bar equipment, making sure all tools and machinery are in proper working condition.

Experience:

• Minimum of 3-5 years of bartending experience.
• Strong knowledge of classic cocktails.

Skills:

• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Excellent multitasking abilities and attention to detail in a fast-paced environment.

Knowledge:

• Thorough understanding of bar operations, including mixology, inventory management, and customer service best practices.
• Knowledge of current industry trends and the ability to introduce innovative beverages.

Attributes:

• Passionate, creative, and enthusiastic about bartending and the service industry.
• Ability to create a welcoming and energetic atmosphere for guests and staff alike.

Environment:
Fast-paced, high end restaurant/bar environment with evening, weekend, and holiday shifts required based on demand.

Physical Demands:
Ability to stand for long periods, lift heavy items (up to 50 lbs), and perform tasks related to bartending and bar setup.