Now Hiring: General Manager - Luxury French Mediterranean Restaurant & Champagne Lounge Washington, D.C.
We're seeking an exceptional General Manager to lead the launch and daily operations of a premier French Mediterranean restaurant and champagne lounge in the heart of downtown Washington, D.C. This stunning new venue is poised to become a cornerstone of the city's international dining scene, offering an exquisite blend of opulence, refined cuisine, and world-class service.
At the helm of the kitchen will be a world-renowned French chef, globally celebrated for his culinary innovation and artistry. His presence will elevate the restaurant into a landmark destination, redefining luxury dining on a global scale.
As General Manager, you will play a pivotal role in shaping every aspect of the guest experience-from curating exceptional service standards to creating an atmosphere that seamlessly blends elegance and sophistication. You will be entrusted with building and leading a best-in-class team, establishing operational excellence, and ensuring the restaurant becomes the premier destination for fine dining and upscale social experiences in the city.
This is a rare opportunity to join at the ground level and help bring a bold, visionary concept to life. Ideal candidates will have a proven background in high-end hospitality, a passion for creating unforgettable guest experiences, and the leadership skills to execute at the highest level.
If you're ready to be part of something extraordinary-and to make your mark on D.C.'s vibrant culinary landscape-we want to hear from you.
Key Responsibilities
- Operational Excellence
- Oversee all aspects of daily restaurant operations, ensuring that all established systems, processes, and standards are rigorously upheld to provide a seamless, high-quality guest experience.
- Maintain an unwavering commitment to consistent quality improvement, championing best practices and encouraging all managers to elevate their performance.
- Leadership & Team Development
- Build, mentor, and lead a high-performance team across all areas (front-of-house, kitchen, and support staff) that exemplifies professionalism and luxury service.
- Act as a role model for other managers and staff, driving them to excel and take pride in delivering an unforgettable dining experience.
- Mentor and develop managers and staff, fostering individual growth, advancement opportunities, and a culture of care and collaboration.
- Guest Experience
- Foster an environment of exceptional service, treating all guests and staff in a way that upholds the restaurant's high standards and reputation.
- Personally ensure that VIPs and high-profile guests receive a memorable experience, handling escalated issues with grace and professionalism to turn challenges into positive outcomes.
- Sales & Financial Management
- Manage budgets and financial performance to meet revenue goals while maintaining the balance between profitability and exceptional guest and staff experiences.
- Follow established budget guidelines, making financially sound decisions in alignment with P&L expectations.
- Prudently adjust actions to maximize profitability, consistently monitoring inventory, cost control, and expense management for optimal financial results.
- Strategic & Long-Term Decision Making
- Make strategic decisions that align with the long-term interests of the restaurant, focusing on sustainable growth and enhancement of the venue's reputation.
- Seek new opportunities to improve operations and elevate the guest experience, always with a focus on enhancing quality, service, and brand image.
- Brand & Culture Development
- Partner with ownership to maintain the restaurant's unique blend of French Mediterranean influences, ensuring it reflects the desired image and elevates the restaurant's standing as a top luxury dining destination.
- Consistently communicate goals, concerns, and updates with ownership, fostering transparency and collaboration in support of the restaurant's objectives.
- Compliance & Safety
- Ensure full compliance with health, safety, and licensing regulations, creating a safe, welcoming environment for guests and staff alike.
- Uphold all company policies and legal requirements without exception, promoting a culture of safety, integrity, and accountability.
- Reputation & Integrity
- Uphold the restaurant and ownership's reputation, demonstrating an exemplary work ethic and professional conduct.
- Work with a proprietary mindset, always acting in the best interest of the restaurant's image and standing in the community.
Qualifications
- 7+ years of experience as a General Manager or senior management role in luxury dining or fine-dining restaurants.
- Proven track record of achieving high guest satisfaction, building strong teams, and meeting financial targets.
- Exceptional leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills with a passion for guest experience and luxury service.
- Strong knowledge of financial management, cost control, and budgeting.
- Bilingual proficiency in French is preferred; fluency in Italian or Spanish is also highly valued.
- Familiarity with French Mediterranean cuisine or similar high-end dining experience preferred.
Perks
- Be part of a premier restaurant at its inception, redefining luxury dining in D.C.
- Competitive salary with performance-based incentives.
- Opportunities for career growth and development within an elite culinary brand.