Chef Dominique Crenn, the trailblazing force behind Atelier Crenn and a global icon in culinary innovation, is bringing her visionary cuisine to Los Angeles. Anticipated as one of the most anticipated openings of 2025, this new concept will redefine the city's luxury dining landscape. We are assembling an extraordinary opening team to bring this experience to life-and we're seeking an experienced and passionate Bar Manager to lead a bar program that reflects the elegance, creativity, and precision at the heart of Chef Crenn's vision.
The ideal candidate will bring a refined understanding of classic and contemporary cocktails, an exceptional palate, and a deep respect for service and hospitality. This is a hands-on leadership role, responsible for maintaining a world-class bar and lounge program-from rare spirits to elevated non-alcoholic offerings-while mentoring a skilled team and delivering unforgettable guest experiences. You'll collaborate closely with the Executive Chef, Beverage Director, and ownership team to ensure a seamless connection between the bar and the broader culinary vision. If you are inspired by craftsmanship, hospitality, and excellence, we invite you to be part of this groundbreaking opening.
Key Responsibilities:
Pre-Opening & Program Development
- Partner with Dominique Crenn's team to implement a bar program that reflects the restaurant's fine dining ethos, featuring classic and innovative cocktails, premium spirits, and elevated non-alcoholic options.
- Work closely with the Executive Chef and Beverage Director to create cocktail and spirits pairings that enhance the culinary experience.
- Establish service standards, bar operations protocols, and guest engagement strategies to ensure a seamless and sophisticated experience.
- Build relationships with premium spirit brands, distributors, and purveyors to source exclusive and rare selections.
- Assist in recruiting and training a team of bartenders and barbacks, instilling a culture of excellence, professionalism, and artistry.
- Oversee bar and lounge setup, ensuring an efficient and upscale operation.
Bar Operations & Service Excellence
- Lead the bar and lounge team in delivering an elegant and engaging guest experience, ensuring every drink is crafted with precision and artistry.
- Train staff on proper technique, cocktail history, spirit knowledge, and refined bar etiquette.
- Ensure that every guest interaction reflects the warmth, sophistication, and impeccable hospitality of the restaurant.
- Oversee proper garnishing, glassware selection, and presentation, maintaining a consistent and polished aesthetic.
- Work closely with the floor team to ensure smooth coordination between bar and table service.
- Personally engage with guests, providing curated recommendations, bespoke cocktails, and spirit education when appropriate.
Leadership & Team Development
- Recruit, train, and mentor a team of skilled bartenders, fostering a culture of craftsmanship, teamwork, and hospitality.
- Conduct daily pre-service briefings, ensuring staff are knowledgeable about menu changes, new spirits, and service expectations.
- Uphold the highest standards of grooming, professionalism, and bar etiquette among the team.
- Lead by example, demonstrating grace under pressure, attention to detail, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
Operational & Financial Management
- Assist in inventory management, ordering, and cost control, ensuring a balanced and financially sustainable bar program.
- Implement systems for stock rotation, loss prevention, and waste reduction while maintaining the highest quality standards.
- Monitor sales trends and guest preferences, adjusting the cocktail menu and offerings to optimize guest experience and revenue.
- Ensure strict compliance with liquor laws, health and safety regulations, and internal service policies.
Brand & Business Development
- Cultivate relationships with industry leaders, spirit brands, and connoisseurs, positioning the bar as a destination for refined cocktail and spirits experiences.
- Organize exclusive tastings, and staff training to enhance the restaurant's reputation.
- Uphold and refine the restaurant's brand identity, ensuring that the bar program reflects its prestige and exclusivity.
Qualifications & Experience
- Minimum 3+ years of leadership experience in high-end bar operations or Michelin-starred establishments.
- Deep knowledge of classic and modern cocktails, spirits, and bar techniques.
- Refined and engaging hospitality approach, with the ability to interact with high- profile guests and create a bespoke experience.
- Expertise in cocktail creation and pairings with fine dining cuisine.
- Strong leadership and team training experience, with a passion for education and mentorship.
- Experience working with premium spirit brands, distributors, and craft ingredients.
- Proficiency in bar management software, POS systems, and inventory control tools.
- Certification in mixology, spirits, or hospitality management (preferred but not required).