Lead Bartender

Behind an unmarked door in Columbia, something unique is being created.

Bandh Darwaza is an Indian-inspired speakeasy cocktail bar celebrating ancient ingredients, Ayurvedic inspiration, and modern cocktail craft. Our menu explores Indian spices, botanicals, and fermentation techniques through thoughtfully designed cocktails and small plates.

We are looking for a Lead Bartender / Head Mixologist who is passionate about craft cocktails and excited to help shape a bar program rooted in Indian flavors and modern techniques.

This role will help develop our signature cocktail program and lead the bar team in delivering an exceptional guest experience.

• Lead the bar during service and maintain smooth cocktail execution
• Collaborate on developing the Bandh Darwaza signature cocktail menu
• Create cocktails inspired by Indian ingredients, spices, and regional flavors
• Maintain high standards of cocktail consistency and presentation
• Train and mentor bartenders and barbacks
• Oversee prep including infusions, syrups, clarifications, and batching
• Maintain bar organization, cleanliness, and inventory

We are looking for someone with strong technical cocktail knowledge and curiosity for global ingredients.

Preferred experience includes:

• Craft cocktail bartending (3+ years preferred)
• Experience with advanced cocktail techniques, including:

• Clarification (milk washing, centrifuge or filtration techniques)

• Infusions and tinctures

• Fat-washing and aromatics

• Fermented ingredients
  • Strong understanding of classic cocktail foundations

Knowledge or interest in Indian ingredients and flavors such as:

• Cardamom
• Turmeric
• Saffron
• Fennel
• Kokum
• Tamarind
• Black salt
• Indian citrus and regional spices

Experience working with these ingredients is a strong plus, but curiosity and willingness to experiment is equally valued.

• Opportunity to help build a new cocktail program from the ground up
• Work with a menu inspired by Ayurveda, Indian spices, and modern mixology
• Creative freedom to explore new ingredients and techniques
• Be part of launching a distinctive speakeasy concept in the DMV area

Send your resume and a short introduction to:

[email protected] or [email protected]

Tell us:

• Your bartending experience
• Your favorite cocktail technique or ingredient to work with
• Why this concept interests you