Sommelier

Sung Shim Food Group | GUI Steakhouse, Bar92, and HWARO

Sung Shim Food Group (SSFG) is the hospitality group behind GUI Steakhouse, Bar92, and HWARO, three distinctive dining concepts by Michelin-starred Chef Sungchul Shim, located at 776 8th Avenue in New York City’s Theatre District.

Each concept reflects Chef Shim’s philosophy of reimagining Korean dining through refined technique, thoughtful storytelling, and elevated hospitality:

• GUI Steakhouse – A nationally ranked steakhouse redefining the American steakhouse through Korean influence, precision dry-aging, and Michelin-recognized culinary standards.

• Bar92 – An elevated lounge and bar offering a refined beverage program, rare spirits, and a sophisticated late-night environment beneath GUI Steakhouse.

• HWARO – An intimate fine dining tasting experience showcasing modern Korean cuisine through seasonal ingredients, technical precision, and an immersive guest experience centered around Chef Shim’s culinary perspective.

We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Sommelier to join our beverage team. This position may be placed within GUI Steakhouse, Bar92, or HWARO depending on operational needs and candidate strengths. The ideal candidate demonstrates exceptional wine knowledge, refined service standards, and a deep commitment to hospitality excellence.

Position Overview

The Sommelier is responsible for delivering exceptional beverage service and supporting the continued development, organization, and execution of the wine and beverage program. This role requires strong technical expertise, leadership presence on the floor, and the ability to elevate the guest experience through thoughtful and confident beverage guidance.

Duties and Responsibilities Service & Guest Experience

• Work the floor actively during service with a focus on beverage sales and guest engagement

• Provide refined wine service and thoughtful pairing recommendations

• Upsell beverages appropriately while prioritizing guest experience

• Maintain exceptional service standards including professional body language, eye contact, and verbiage

• Provide detailed and accurate knowledge of all beverage offerings

• Attend daily pre-service meetings and participate in ongoing staff training

• Follow all opening, closing, and service procedures

Beverage Program & Operations

• Maintain comprehensive knowledge of all wines, spirits, cocktails, beers, and non-alcoholic beverages

• Assist Beverage Manager in ordering wine and maintaining proper inventory levels

• Assist with weekly inventory and reporting

• Maintain organization and cleanliness of cellar, wine stations, and beverage storage areas

• Support development and maintenance of beverage training materials and beverage encyclopedia

• Assist in educating and training FOH staff

• Support ongoing development and refinement of the wine program

• Open and close beverage operations as required

Team Contribution & Professional Standards

• Provide exceptional hospitality and professionalism at all times

• Support and motivate team members through education and leadership

• Maintain a safe, organized, and clean work environment

• Perform additional duties as assigned by management

Mandatory Requirements

• Minimum 2 years of experience as a Sommelier or in a similar beverage-focused role

• Michelin-starred or Michelin-recognized restaurant experience strongly preferred

• Strong knowledge of classical wine regions, varietals, and formal wine service

• Reading, writing, and oral proficiency in English

• Ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays

• Strong communication, organizational, and multitasking skills

• Professional appearance and grooming standards

• Ability to lift and carry 40+ lbs

• Ability to perform confidently in a high-standard fine dining environment

Required Skills

• Classic wine service expertise and formal service technique

• Strong beverage and pairing knowledge

• Cellar organization and inventory management

• Budget and cost awareness

• Ability to contribute to wine program development

• Strong guest engagement and floor presence

• Fine dining service expertise

Preferred Qualifications

• Michelin-starred or Michelin-recognized restaurant experience preferred

• CMS, WSET, or equivalent wine certification preferred

• Experience working within tasting menu environments preferred

• Passion for Korean cuisine and modern hospitality