Lead Bartender

LEAD BARTENDER

Driftwood Grille is looking for an experienced Lead Bartender with strong mixology skills and a passion for great hospitality.

We’re a busy, independent restaurant with a scratch kitchen, a creative cocktail program, and a bar that plays a major role in the Driftwood experience. We’re looking for someone who can bring both craft and leadership behind the bar.

The right person knows how to make a great classic cocktail, understands how flavors work together, and enjoys creating drinks that guests actually want to order. Just as importantly, you should be comfortable taking the lead during a busy service, setting the standard for the bar team, and delivering genuine hospitality.

WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR

• Significant bartending experience in a high-volume, full-service restaurant or craft cocktail environment
• Strong knowledge of spirits, classic cocktails, modern cocktail techniques, beer and wine
• Genuine mixology skills and an interest in cocktail development
• Ability to balance creativity with speed, consistency and profitability
• Strong understanding of proper pours, recipes, presentation and bar organization
• Ability to lead by example and help train and develop other bartenders
• Comfortable taking ownership of bar standards during service
• Excellent guest interaction and hospitality skills
• Dependable, organized and able to stay composed when the bar gets busy
• Availability for nights and weekends

THE ROLE

As Lead Bartender, you’ll work regular bartending shifts while also helping us maintain and continue developing a bar program we’re proud of. You’ll help ensure cocktails are made consistently, the bar is properly set for service, standards are maintained, and the entire team is capable of executing our drink menu at a high level.

You’ll also have the opportunity to contribute ideas for seasonal cocktails, new recipes, spirits and bar features. We want someone who enjoys the creative side of bartending but understands that a successful cocktail has to be delicious, executable during a busy Saturday night, and appealing to our guests.

ABOUT DRIFTWOOD

Driftwood Grille is an independently owned restaurant inspired by the food, drinks and relaxed hospitality of a Northwoods lake lodge and classic Wisconsin supper club. Our beverage program combines approachable favorites with thoughtfully crafted cocktails, quality spirits, beer and wine.

We take what we serve seriously — without taking ourselves too seriously.

If you’re an experienced bartender who wants more responsibility, enjoys creating cocktails, and wants to have a meaningful role in shaping a bar program, we’d like to meet you.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $9.00 - $100.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule

Work Location: In person