Bar Manager - Bartender - Barista

Job Summary

The Emerald Cafe just got approved for a liquor license and is looking for an experienced and hospitality-driven Bar Manager to lead the beverage program at our 119 St. Nicholas location. This is a hands-on management position for someone who is equally comfortable behind the bar crafting cocktails, making quality coffee, and leading a team.

The ideal candidate has strong bartending and cocktail-making experience, understands beverage service and bar operations, and is also proficient with a commercial espresso machine and comfortable preparing coffee and espresso drinks.

We’re looking for someone who takes pride in creating an excellent guest experience, maintains high standards, and can confidently manage the bar while supporting the overall flow of the shop.

Duties

• Manage daily bar operations
• Manage the day-to-day operations of the bar and beverage program
• Create and prepare cocktails, mixed drinks, and other alcoholic beverages
• Maintain knowledge of classic cocktails, spirits, beer, wine, and current beverage trends
• Operate a commercial espresso machine and prepare high-quality espresso drinks and coffee
• Train, lead, and support bartenders and beverage staff
• Ensure consistent quality, presentation, and service across all beverages
• Develop and maintain cocktail and beverage recipes and standards
• Monitor inventory of liquor, beer, wine, coffee, syrups, mixers, and other beverage supplies
• Place and receive beverage orders and maintain appropriate inventory levels
• Maintain a clean, organized, and properly stocked bar and coffee station
• Follow all health, safety, sanitation, and responsible alcohol service requirements
• Handle opening and closing procedures and ensure proper cash handling
• Provide excellent customer service and create a welcoming environment for guests
• Assist with scheduling, staff communication, and day-to-day team management
• Address guest concerns professionally and help resolve issues as they arise
• Work closely with management to improve beverage offerings, operations, and guest experience
• Lead by example and remain hands-on during busy shifts

Skills

• Previous bartending experience is required
• Previous bar management or supervisory experience preferred
• Strong knowledge of cocktails, spirits, beer, and wine
• Demonstrated ability to make quality cocktails and mixed drinks
• Experience operating a commercial espresso machine is required
• Ability to prepare espresso-based drinks and quality coffee
• Strong understanding of bar service, beverage preparation, and hospitality
• Excellent communication and leadership skills
• Ability to train and motivate a team
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to multitask and remain calm in a fast-paced environment
• Comfortable working hands-on during busy service
• Reliable, punctual, and professional
• Must be of legal drinking age and meet all applicable requirements for serving alcohol in New York
• Flexible availability, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed

Ideal Candidate:
We’re looking for someone who genuinely enjoys hospitality and can move seamlessly between crafting a great cocktail, pulling a perfect espresso, managing a busy bar, and leading a team. A positive attitude, strong work ethic, and passion for creating a great neighborhood experience are just as important as technical skills.

Pay: $19.00 - $23.00 per hour

Expected hours: 30.0 – 40.0 per week

Work Location: In person