Job Overview

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Employment Type

Full-time
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Compensation

Type:
Hourly
Rate:
Exact $11.00
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Benefits

Hourly rate of $11/hr plus tips
comprehensive medical insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Paid Time Off
Paid parental leave
51% dining discount
Eligibility for the USHG Digital Wallet
Flexible Spending Options (health care, dependent care, transit & parking)
Employee assistance program
Exclusive access to primary care and mental health services
Matched 401(k)
Generous Employee Referral Program
Access to the USHG HUGS Employee Relief Fund

Job Description

Union Square Cafe is a renowned restaurant celebrated for its seasonal cuisine inspired by the kitchens and tables of Italy, France, and Northern California. Established in 1985, it is the flagship restaurant that launched the Union Square Hospitality Group (USHG), which remains an influential and beloved hospitality company in the United States. The restaurant has maintained its reputation for over 35 years for delivering heartfelt passion, generosity of service, and a unique dining experience. Located in its second home on 19th Street, the restaurant masterfully blends the signature charm and intimacy of its original space with a fresh, contemporary dining environment designed by the acclaimed Rockwell Group. Union Square Cafe has won five James Beard Awards, underscoring its standing in the culinary world, and has been ranked by the Zagat Survey as New York's Most Popular Restaurant an unprecedented nine times.Show More
The role of Sommelier at Union Square Cafe is a vital position within the restaurant’s service team. Tasked with curating and delivering an exceptional wine and beverage experience, the Sommelier acts as a trusted expert and partner in executing the restaurant’s acclaimed beverage program. This position involves collaboration with the Beverage Director, fellow sommeliers, bartenders, and the service staff to ensure the beverage offerings exceed guest expectations and complement the seasonal cuisine. The Sommelier’s responsibilities include providing personalized wine guidance to guests, educating the service team about wine, beer, spirits, cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages, and managing the wine inventory based on business needs and financial targets. As a dynamic role, the Sommelier must demonstrate flexibility, a wide-ranging knowledge of beverage service, and a commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.

As part of a culture that values Enlightened Hospitality, the Sommelier helps create a welcoming and memorable dining atmosphere. The restaurant offers a competitive hourly wage starting at $11 per hour plus tips, alongside comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision insurance, paid time off, parental leave, and a generous dining discount across all USHG restaurants. The team environment at Union Square Cafe encourages professional development and offers various employee resources such as flexible spending accounts and an employee assistance program that supports overall wellbeing. This position not only offers the chance to work at an iconic New York City restaurant but also provides opportunities to grow within a respected hospitality group that prioritizes both guest experience and employee satisfaction.Show Less

Job Requirements

  • 2+ years experience as a Sommelier or wine service role
  • strong knowledge in wine, spirits, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages
  • English fluency
  • ability to stand or walk for long periods of time
  • excellent communication skills
  • ability to work flexible hours including nights and weekends
  • positive attitude and teamwork orientation

Job Qualifications

  • 2+ years experience as a Sommelier or wine service role
  • strong knowledge in wine, spirits, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages
  • ability to communicate effectively in English
  • additional languages preferred but not required
  • strong interpersonal and customer service skills
  • ability to educate and mentor team members
  • knowledge of inventory and financial management related to beverage programs

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 offering guidance and suggestions of wine and beverage selections
  • educate service team on wine, beer, spirits, cocktail and non-alcoholic beverage items to add value and foster learning
  • deliver a financially responsible wine program resulting in increased sales and proper inventory management
  • demonstrate flexibility and a wide range of skills and knowledge in all service positions
  • show eagerness to continue to learn and grow

Job Location

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