FOH - Sommelier (Part-Time)

SA Hospitality Group is an esteemed hospitality company rooted in Italian culture and tradition, co-founded by Gherardo Guarducci and Dimitri Pauli. Since its inception in 2003, the company has grown and established itself as a significant player in the New York dining scene, known for its authentic Italian dining experiences. The group operates three iconic brands: Sant Ambroeus, Casa Lever, and Felice, collectively spanning 24 premier restaurant locations across major cities including Manhattan, Southampton NY, East Hampton NY, Aspen CO, Milan Italy, and Palm Beach FL. With this wide footprint, SA Hospitality Group continues to uphold its commitment to excellence, blending old-world Italian sensibilities with the vibrant modern-day preferences of a discerning New York City clientele. Their establishments are celebrated for their exemplary service, high-quality menus, and authentic ambiance, creating memorable dining experiences for guests.

The role available is that of a Sommelier, a vital position responsible for ensuring both the quality and consistency of the restaurant's beverage program. This role involves more than just serving wine; it requires a comprehensive approach to enhancing guest satisfaction by expertly recommending wines and other beverages, educating staff on beverage knowledge, and maintaining the integrity of the wine cellar. The Sommelier acts as an ambassador for the beverage program, interacting closely with both guests and service teams, helping to create an inviting atmosphere while supporting the restaurant’s sales goals. This position pays $16 per hour plus tips and involves both hands-on service and back-of-house responsibilities centered on logistics, product presentation, and staff education.

The Sommelier will lead initiatives to optimize departmental logistics, such as improving wine sales strategies and maintaining an organized and well-managed wine cellar. Key responsibilities include conducting training sessions for new and existing staff, ensuring the appropriate labeling and storage of wines, and checking deliveries closely for quality control. On the restaurant floor, the Sommelier provides friendly, courteous, and knowledgeable service, assisting the service staff and offering wine pairing suggestions tailored to guests' tastes and budgets. The role demands an individual who is approachable and professional, able to foster strong guest relationships, resolve complaints diplomatically, and contribute to a smooth and enjoyable dining experience.

Staff education and product presentation are also critical; the Sommelier monitors the quality of wine glasses, decanters, and overall presentation, ensures proper bottle decanting and pouring techniques, and organizes regular training and tasting sessions to keep staff informed about current wine trends and inventory updates. The Sommelier must take initiative in managing wine operations when other team members are absent, including handling deliveries and invoice reconciliation.

Continuous personal development is an inherent expectation within this role, with the individual required to stay informed about global wine trends and deepen their wine expertise independently. The company supports ongoing education efforts with prior management approval, affirming their commitment to professional growth. This position is ideal for an individual with a passion for wine, excellent interpersonal skills, and the ability to thrive in a dynamic, high-volume hospitality environment where teamwork and guest satisfaction are prioritized.