Bartender

About Chama Mama

At Chama Mama, we do more than serve food—we create memorable experiences through hospitality, culture, wine, and genuine human connection.

Inspired by the rich traditions of Georgia, the birthplace of wine, we bring authentic Georgian cuisine to New York City with a modern approach while preserving centuries-old culinary traditions. Every detail of our restaurants reflects our commitment to exceptional hospitality, from our custom-built clay ovens that bake fresh Georgian bread daily to one of the country's most extensive collections of natural Georgian wines.

Today, Chama Mama continues to grow across New York City through multiple restaurant locations, catering services, a centralized Culinary Lab, and bakery operations. As we expand, we are looking for passionate hospitality professionals who believe that a guest is a gift from God and who want to build meaningful careers while creating unforgettable guest experiences.

Who You Are

As a Bartender, you are an essential part of the Chama Mama guest experience. You combine genuine hospitality with strong beverage knowledge, attention to detail, and consistent execution to create memorable experiences for every guest.

You are warm, engaging, organized, and confident working in a fast-paced environment. You take pride in preparing excellent beverages, enjoy sharing your knowledge of wine and cocktails, and understand that great bartending is about much more than making drinks—it is about connecting with guests and creating an experience they want to return to.

What You'll DoCreate Exceptional Guest Experiences

• Welcome every guest with genuine warmth, professionalism, and enthusiasm.

• Provide attentive and knowledgeable service to guests seated at the bar.

• Build meaningful connections with guests while anticipating their needs throughout their experience.

• Provide thoughtful beverage recommendations based on guest preferences.

• Recognize celebrations, regular guests, VIPs, and special occasions to help create memorable experiences.

Deliver Beverage Excellence

• Prepare and serve alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages consistently according to Chama Mama recipes, specifications, and standards.

• Maintain strong knowledge of our cocktail program, spirits, beer, Georgian wines, and non-alcoholic offerings.

• Develop a strong understanding of Georgian wine traditions, varietals, and regions to confidently guide guests through our wine program.

• Use thoughtful suggestive selling to enhance the guest experience while supporting beverage sales.

• Ensure every beverage is prepared accurately, efficiently, and with consistent presentation.

• Maintain proper portioning and pouring standards to support quality and cost controls.

Maintain a Clean & Organized Bar

• Keep the bar clean, organized, stocked, and fully prepared throughout service.

• Complete opening, mid-shift, and closing responsibilities according to established procedures.

• Monitor bar supplies and communicate low-stock or 86'd items promptly to management and the service team.

• Properly maintain and clean bar equipment, glassware, tools, and work areas.

• Report equipment issues, breakage, or maintenance concerns to management promptly.

• Support proper inventory control and minimize unnecessary waste.

Support Seamless Service

• Work closely with servers, captains, hosts, managers, and the culinary team to ensure smooth and timely service.

• Prepare beverages for both bar guests and service tickets accurately and efficiently.

• Communicate proactively with the team regarding ticket times, unavailable items, guest requests, and service concerns.

• Support teammates whenever needed to maintain an exceptional overall guest experience.

• Follow Chama Mama's Steps of Service and hospitality standards during every shift.

Serve Responsibly & Professionally

• Verify guest identification and age in accordance with New York State alcohol service requirements.

• Practice responsible alcohol service and follow all applicable liquor laws and company policies.

• Recognize signs of intoxication and communicate concerns to management promptly and professionally.

• Handle challenging guest situations calmly, respectfully, and with management support when appropriate.

• Process guest payments and maintain tabs accurately.

• Follow all food safety, sanitation, workplace safety, and cash-handling procedures.

What We're Looking For

• Previous bartending experience in a restaurant, bar, or hospitality environment preferred.

• Strong bartending skills and knowledge of classic and contemporary cocktails.

• Wine knowledge is strongly preferred; interest in learning about Georgian wine is essential.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

• Passion for providing exceptional hospitality.

• Strong organizational skills with the ability to multitask in a fast-paced, high-volume environment.

• Ability to remain composed, professional, and guest-focused during busy service periods.

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to consistency.

• Positive attitude with a strong team-first mindset.

• Knowledge of responsible alcohol service practices and applicable alcohol regulations.

• Required alcohol awareness certification/training in accordance with company and applicable regulatory requirements.

• Food Protection Certificate where required.

• Fluent in spoken and written English.

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

• Flexible availability, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

What You'll Receive

At Chama Mama, we believe our people are our greatest investment. We are committed to helping every team member grow personally and professionally.

As a Bartender, you'll enjoy:

• Competitive hourly pay.

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance (for eligible employees).

• 401(k) with company matching.

• Employee dining discounts.

• Ongoing beverage, wine, and hospitality training.

• Professional development and opportunities for career growth within our expanding restaurant group.

• The opportunity to deepen your knowledge of Georgian wine and hospitality traditions.

• The opportunity to be part of one of New York City's leading Georgian hospitality brands.

Our Hospitality Principles

At Chama Mama, every team member lives by a few simple beliefs:

• A Guest Is a Gift from God.

• We Are Cultural Guardians.

• Hospitality Begins with Our Team.

• Lead by Example.

• Never Stop Growing.

Why Chama Mama?

Joining Chama Mama means becoming part of a growing hospitality company with a clear vision for the future. We are building more than restaurants—we are building careers, preserving Georgian culture, and creating unforgettable experiences for our guests every day.

If you're passionate about hospitality, love connecting with people, take pride in beverage craftsmanship, and want to grow with a team that truly values its employees, we'd love to meet you.

Grow with Chama Mama. Raise the Bar. Inspire Through Hospitality.

Chama Mama is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone has the opportunity to grow and succeed.