
Job Overview
Compensation
Hourly
Exact $11.35
Benefits
competitive pay
Quick access to earnings
comprehensive health coverage
Generous Paid Time Off
Matched 401(k) plan
Life insurance
Hospitality perks
Job Description
Union Square Cafe is a renowned restaurant that has been a cornerstone of New York City's dining scene for over 40 years. Founded in 1985, it is the flagship establishment that launched Danny Meyer's Union Square Hospitality Group, a leader in the hospitality industry known for its commitment to excellence, innovation, and guest experience. The restaurant's seasonal cuisine is inspired by the culinary traditions of Italy, France, and Northern California, offering guests a unique and diverse menu that reflects the best of these regions. The second location on 19th Street, designed by the prestigious Rockwell Group, combines the restaurant's signature charm and intimacy with a fresh, contemporary dining environment, ensuring an inviting atmosphere for all guests. Union Square Cafe has received numerous accolades, including five James Beard Awards and nine-time recognition by the Zagat Survey as New York's Most Popular Restaurant, underscoring its reputation for outstanding food and service.
The role of Sommelier at Union Square Cafe is a pivotal position within the service team, responsible for enhancing the guest experience through expert knowledge and presentation of the beverage program. This role acts as a trusted partner to fellow sommeliers, bartenders, and service staff, working closely with the Beverage Director to maintain a dynamic and enticing wine list that complements the restaurant's menu. The Sommelier is expected to provide personalized guidance and recommendations to guests, ensuring each dining experience is memorable and tailored to individual tastes. Additionally, the Sommelier plays a key role in educating the service team on wines, beers, spirits, cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages, fostering a culture of learning and enthusiasm within the team. Beyond guest interaction, the Sommelier is charged with delivering a financially responsible wine program, managing inventory effectively to align with the restaurant's revenue and operational goals. This position requires flexibility, a broad skill set in various service roles, and a continuous desire for personal and professional growth. The employment offers competitive pay starting at $11.35 per hour plus tips, with additional benefits that emphasize care, creativity, and growth. Union Square Hospitality Group is committed to extending Enlightened Hospitality — a philosophy centered around genuine care for guests, team members, and the community — making this role ideal for those passionate about hospitality and wine service.
The role of Sommelier at Union Square Cafe is a pivotal position within the service team, responsible for enhancing the guest experience through expert knowledge and presentation of the beverage program. This role acts as a trusted partner to fellow sommeliers, bartenders, and service staff, working closely with the Beverage Director to maintain a dynamic and enticing wine list that complements the restaurant's menu. The Sommelier is expected to provide personalized guidance and recommendations to guests, ensuring each dining experience is memorable and tailored to individual tastes. Additionally, the Sommelier plays a key role in educating the service team on wines, beers, spirits, cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages, fostering a culture of learning and enthusiasm within the team. Beyond guest interaction, the Sommelier is charged with delivering a financially responsible wine program, managing inventory effectively to align with the restaurant's revenue and operational goals. This position requires flexibility, a broad skill set in various service roles, and a continuous desire for personal and professional growth. The employment offers competitive pay starting at $11.35 per hour plus tips, with additional benefits that emphasize care, creativity, and growth. Union Square Hospitality Group is committed to extending Enlightened Hospitality — a philosophy centered around genuine care for guests, team members, and the community — making this role ideal for those passionate about hospitality and wine service.
Job Requirements
- 2+ years experience as a sommelier or wine service role
- Strong knowledge in wine, spirits, beer, and n/a beverages
- English fluency
- Ability to stand or walk for long periods of time
Job Qualifications
- 2+ years experience as a sommelier or wine service role
- Strong knowledge in wine, spirits, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages
- English fluency
- Additional languages preferred but not required
Job Duties
- Consistently support a culture of enlightened hospitality
- Partner with beverage director to create and maintain an enticing wine program that enhances the guest experience
- Provide guests with a memorable experience by providing guidance and suggestions of wine and beverage selections
- Educate service team on wine, beer, spirits, cocktail and non-alcoholic beverage items in a way that adds value and fuels the team’s desires to learn and grow
- Deliver a financially responsible wine program that results in increased sales and maintains an inventory that is in-line with the restaurant’s revenue and business levels
- Demonstrate flexibility and a wide range of skills and knowledge in all service positions and an eagerness to continue to learn and grow
Job Criteria
Experience
Mid Level (3-7 years)
Job Location
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