Bartender

BARTENDER

Reports To: General Manager
Key Relationships: General Manager, Director of Operations, Hourly Team Members, Service Staff

Bartenders at Shiraz Kitchen & Wine Bar are ambassadors of hospitality and wine culture. This role requires mastery of our cocktail program and deep familiarity with our award-winning wine list, including biodynamic, small-production, and Persian–Mediterranean pairing principles.

Our bartenders guide guests through flavor profiles, pairings, regions, and winemaker stories—crafting a wine-forward experience that reflects Shiraz Kitchen’s identity. They prepare and serve impeccable beverages, maintain the bar environment, anticipate guest needs, and embody the warmth and generosity that define the Shiraz brand.

Bartenders must demonstrate:

• Strong working knowledge of global wine regions, grape varieties, and production styles.

• Familiarity with New World vs. Old World distinctions, including Marlborough, Napa, Burgundy, Bordeaux, Rhône, Rioja, Tuscany, Sicily, Greece, and more.

• Ability to describe wines using aroma, acidity, body, tannin, sweetness, and finish.

• Understanding of biodynamic and small-production wines, including typical characteristics and talking points.

• Ability to upsell with warmth and authenticity, helping guests explore the wine list with confidence.

• Ability to execute the Shiraz Kitchen philosophy:
  Wine should elevate the meal, not overshadow it—pairing should feel effortless, not intimidating.

• Prepare and serve all alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages with precision and consistency.

• Verify identification for all guests appearing under 30 before serving alcohol.

• Maintain warmth, sincerity, and hospitality in every guest interaction.

• Guide guests through the beverage and food menus; offer thoughtful wine and cocktail recommendations.

• Explain flavor profiles, wine regions, pairing suggestions, and winemaker stories.

• Manage course pacing, menu modifications, allergy alerts, and guest notes.

• Address guest concerns with a find-a-way-to-say-yes approach; involve a manager when appropriate.

• Complete opening, mid-shift, and closing checklists.

• Enter orders with 100% accuracy and process all payments correctly.

• Submit accurate financials and tip reporting each shift.

• Collaborate with team members to maintain seamless service flow.

• Participate in ongoing wine, cocktail, and hospitality training.

• Relay important guest details—VIPs, celebrations, allergies—to the entire team.

• Maintain DOH standards at all times; ensure bar and workstation cleanliness.

• Follow proper storage procedures for wine, spirits, and perishables.

• Inspect tools, equipment, and supplies; correct any deficiencies immediately.

• Report DOH or OSHA concerns to management immediately.

• Use all equipment safely and properly.

• Deliver exceptional, personalized hospitality that represents Shiraz Kitchen’s values.

• Provide engaging wine and beverage storytelling aligned with our brand.

• Maintain a polished, gracious presence at the bar—every guest should feel welcomed and seen.

• Strong multitasking and time management skills.

• Comfortable in a fast-paced, high-volume environment.

• Proficient in POS systems and basic restaurant tech.

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended periods.

• Availability nights, weekends, and holidays.

• Professional appearance and demeanor.

• Minimum 3 years bartending experience in a high-volume or wine-focused restaurant.

• NYC Food Protection Certificate or ServSafe needed.

• Prior experience in a wine bar, Mediterranean restaurant, or cocktail-focused program is a strong plus.