Chef Sommelier (550 Madison)

Gracious Hospitality Management is an award-winning hospitality company renowned for its dedication to excellence and innovation in the high-end dining sector. As it expands operations to its newest project, 550 Madison, the company continues to set new benchmarks in immersive and transformative dining experiences in Midtown Manhattan. The 550 Madison project is a landmark multi-level, 15,000-square-foot dining destination inside the iconic Sony building. This ambitious project brings together three unique concepts: the second New York location of the Michelin-starred COTE Korean Steakhouse, an all-day multi-bar and dining concept called Chimera, and an intimate sushi restaurant led by Michelin-starred Chef Masahiro Yoshitake, known as Sushi Yoshitake. These establishments are designed by the acclaimed Rockwell Group, with the sushi concept's collaboration by Yoshio Itai, aiming to redefine sophisticated dining and hospitality in New York City.

The role of Chef Sommelier at 550 Madison offers an outstanding opportunity for hospitality professionals passionate about wine and customer service. This position involves close collaboration with beverage and management teams to develop and execute a comprehensive wine program tailored to one of the three distinct dining concepts. The Chef Sommelier will have a significant role in curating the restaurant's wine list, driving wine and beverage sales, and ensuring high standards of wine service. This individual is expected to possess expert knowledge of wine regions, laws, grape varieties, fermentation processes, climate effects, and much more, enabling them to deliver an exceptional dining experience centered around wine pairing and service.

Comprehensive on-site training is provided to qualified and motivated candidates, facilitating seamless integration into the team and adherence to the company’s standards. The Chef Sommelier will act as a dining room captain during service, support different departments to maintain excellence, and provide coaching to sommeliers and service staff. The role also encompasses administrative responsibilities, including beverage programming for special events, managing wine inventory, overseeing ordering and invoicing tasks, and maintaining educational materials for continuous staff development. The position is strategic and customer-facing, requiring the building of long-lasting relationships with guests and serving as a cornerstone for wine enthusiasts visiting the restaurant.

In addition to the hands-on wine responsibilities, the Chef Sommelier is instrumental in staff training and education. This involves conducting classes, contributing to internal educational sessions like COTE College, and encouraging ongoing learning about wine among the service team. The role demands excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively with colleagues and customers alike, maintaining professionalism under the high-paced and sometimes stressful environment that accompanies premier hospitality settings.

Applicants for this role should be prepared for a progressive hiring process starting with resume screening and interviews, followed by training before the anticipated opening in Spring 2026. The position is full-time, and the company prioritizes a collaborative culture grounded in respect, learning, and sustainability. 550 Madison is committed to equal employment opportunities and inclusivity, supporting all employees without discrimination based on any protected characteristic. Candidates who meet the qualifications and requirements will find this role rewarding, with numerous professional growth opportunities and competitive benefits.