Job Description

Essential Responsibilities

Bar Operations & Guest Service

• Lead daily bar operations to ensure consistent, high-quality beverage service.
• Maintain and enforce Southern Kitchen’s standards for cocktails, wine, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages.
• Ensure bartenders and barbacks deliver fast, professional, and friendly service.
• Collaborate with management on promotions, happy hours, and special events (e.g., live music).
• Resolve guest complaints related to bar service promptly and professionally.

Staff Management

• Recruit, hire, train, and mentor bar team members.
• Create and manage schedules to ensure coverage for daily service and events.
• Conduct performance evaluations and provide coaching when needed.
• Lead training programs in cocktail preparation, responsible alcohol service, and upselling.
• Build a positive, team-oriented bar culture.

Beverage Program Development

• Design and update cocktail and beverage menus in collaboration with ownership and management.
• Stay current with industry trends while keeping with Southern Kitchen’s brand.
• Develop seasonal features, specialty cocktails, and signature drinks.
• Balance profitability with guest value through thoughtful pricing strategies.

Financial Management & Inventory Control

• Oversee ordering, receiving, storage, and reconciliation of bar inventory.
• Minimize waste and control beverage costs through proper systems.
• Review invoices and maintain vendor relationships.
• Track sales and profitability, reporting to the General Manager.
• Assist in strategies to grow bar revenue.

Compliance & Safety

• Ensure compliance with Virginia ABC laws and regulations.
• Maintain all bar licenses, permits, and inspection documentation.
• Train staff on responsible service and enforce ID-checking policies.
• Oversee safe handling of equipment, glassware, and alcohol storage.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of bar management or lead bartender experience in fine dining or upscale restaurants.
• Strong leadership and team management abilities.
• Advanced knowledge of cocktails, wine, beer, and spirits.
• Experience with bar inventory systems and cost control.
• Excellent guest service and conflict resolution skills.
• Knowledge of Virginia ABC laws required.
• ServSafe Alcohol or equivalent certification strongly preferred.

Work Schedule

• Full-time role with flexible availability.
• Nights, weekends, holidays, and special events required.
• On-call availability for urgent staffing or operational needs.

Do you want me to also add a short opening and closing statement (something like “Join our team at Southern Kitchen where we pride ourselves on fine dining with elegance” + “Apply today to become part of our growing team”) to make it more inviting on Indeed?

️ Welcome to Southern Kitchen Restaurant – Where Soul Meets Service
At Southern Kitchen, we don’t just serve food — we serve warmth, community, and tradition. Located in Stony Point Fashion Park in Richmond, VA, our restaurant is known for authentic Southern cuisine, heartfelt hospitality, and a dining experience that feels like home.
Whether it’s our perfectly fried catfish, creamy mac & cheese, or sweet tea served with a smile, everything we do is rooted in family, flavor, and pride.
We’re building a team of passionate, reliable, and energetic individuals who love great food and great people. If you're looking to grow in the restaurant industry, be part of a team that supports one another, and work in a fast-paced, guest-focused environment — you’re in the right place.
‍ What We Offer:
A welcoming and supportive team culture
Opportunities to grow within the company
Flexible scheduling and competitive pay
Training and development from experienced leaders
A chance to be part of something special in RVA
Join Our Story
We’re more than a restaurant — we’re a family. If you bring hustle, heart, and hospitality, we’d love to have you at our table.

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