About The Henri
The Henri is a refined dining destination in the heart of Washington, DC, defined by precision, warmth, and an unwavering commitment to hospitality at the highest level. Our approach blends technical excellence with genuine care, creating a guest experience that is both polished and deeply personal. Alongside our dining room, The Henri is a premier venue for high-profile private events, requiring a team that operates with sophistication, discretion, and exacting standards.
Position Summary
The Dining Room Manager is a key leader responsible for driving service excellence and executing a best-in-class beverage program. This role requires a dynamic operator with a deep understanding of fine dining service, a strong command of wine, spirits, and cocktails, and the ability to lead a team with clarity and intention.
This individual will be equally comfortable on the floor—guiding service and engaging guests—as they are behind the scenes—developing systems, training staff, and refining the beverage offering.
Key Responsibilities
Service Leadership & Execution
- Lead the dining room floor with presence, precision, and accountability, ensuring seamless execution of all service standards
- Actively coach and develop service staff in real time, reinforcing technique, awareness, and hospitality
- Maintain a constant pulse on the guest experience, anticipating needs and resolving issues with urgency and professionalism
- Partner closely with the Maître d’ to manage flow, pacing, and overall dining room orchestration
Beverage Program Oversight
- Serve as a leader of The Henri’s beverage program, with a strong emphasis on wine, spirits, and cocktail execution
- Maintain deep knowledge of the wine list, including regions, producers, and pairings; confidently guide guests and staff
- Oversee proper service standards for wine, Champagne, and cocktails, ensuring technical precision
- Collaborate on list development, pricing strategy, and product selection to align with the restaurant’s identity
- Work closely with vendors and distributors to maintain quality, availability, and cost controls
Training & Development
- Lead ongoing beverage and service education for the team, including structured trainings and daily pre-shifts
- Develop staff knowledge across wine varietals, spirits categories, and classic cocktails
- Instill a culture of curiosity, discipline, and continuous improvement
- Ensure all team members are confident in both technical execution and guest engagement
Private Events & Revenue Integration
- Partner with the events team using TripleSeat to execute private dining experiences at the highest level
- Ensure beverage offerings for events are thoughtful, profitable, and seamlessly executed
- Support upselling strategies and revenue-driving initiatives across both dining room and events
Operational Excellence
- Uphold all service, beverage, and operational standards with consistency and discipline
- Monitor labor, beverage cost, and inventory controls related to the beverage program
- Ensure proper handling, storage, and presentation of all beverage products
- Maintain a polished and highly organized service environment at all times
Qualifications
- 4–6+ years of management experience in Michelin-starred or equivalent fine dining environments
- Strong background in beverage, with advanced knowledge of wine, spirits, and cocktails
- Sommelier certification (CMS, WSET, or equivalent) strongly preferred
- Proven ability to lead and develop high-performing service teams
- Exceptional floor presence, communication skills, and attention to detail
- Experience with OpenTable and familiarity with TripleSeat preferred
- Ability to thrive in a high-expectation, fast-paced environment
- Flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays
- Multilingual (Spanish Speaking) is also preferred
What We Offer
- Competitive salary: $80,000 – $95,000 (commensurate with experience)
- Performance-based bonus structure
- Opportunities for growth within a high-caliber hospitality group
- Ongoing education in food, beverage, and service
- Dining benefits and team culture rooted in excellence
