Restaurant Manager

About the role

ÉN is seeking a Restaurant Manager to join our team in Melbourne VIC 3000. A full-time position that offers a unique opportunity to lead and manage a dynamic Japanese dining establishment. As Restaurant Manager, you will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of daily operations, ensuring exceptional service standards, and maintaining the authentic dining experience. This role is pivotal to the success of our restaurant and requires someone with a passion for Japanese cuisine, strong leadership capabilities, and a commitment to excellence in hospitality.

Key responsibilities

Leadership & Team Management

• Lead, mentor and inspire the front-of-house team.
• Recruit, onboard and train new employees.
• Conduct regular team briefings and performance reviews.
• Foster a positive, respectful and accountable workplace culture.
• Prepare and manage weekly staff rosters.
• Ensure staffing levels align with business requirements.

Restaurant Operations

• Oversee all daily restaurant operations.
• Ensure smooth service during lunch and dinner periods.
• Maintain exceptional standards of cleanliness, presentation and organisation.
• Monitor labour costs and productivity.
• Ensure compliance with Food Safety, RSA and Workplace Health & Safety requirements.
• Manage opening and closing procedures.

Guest Experience

• Deliver exceptional hospitality and personalised service.
• Build strong relationships with regular guests.
• Handle guest feedback professionally and effectively.
• Manage reservations, seating and service flow.
• Ensure every guest receives a memorable dining experience.

Financial & Administrative

• Monitor daily sales and operational performance.
• Assist with budgeting and cost control.
• Manage inventory and stock ordering.
• Complete stocktakes and minimise waste.
• Review daily reports and identify opportunities for improvement.
• Work towards achieving financial and operational KPIs.

Beverage & Product Knowledge

• Maintain a strong understanding of the food and beverage programme.
• Promote premium sake, Japanese whisky, wine and cocktails.
• Train staff on menu knowledge and beverage recommendations.
• Support seasonal menu launches and special events.

Business Development

• Drive guest retention and repeat visitation.
• Assist with promotional campaigns and community engagement.
• Collaborate with management to improve sales and profitability.
• Continuously identify opportunities to enhance the guest experience.

What We're Looking For

• Minimum 2 years experience in a Restaurant Manager or senior hospitality leadership role.
• Strong leadership and people management skills.
• Excellent communication and organisational abilities.
• Proven experience managing labour, stock and operational costs.
• Passion for premium hospitality and guest service.
• Experience using reservation and POS systems.
• Knowledge of Japanese cuisine and beverages is highly regarded but not essential.
• Current Victorian RSA certificate.
• Food Safety Supervisor certification is advantageous.

What We Offer

• Full-time permanent position.
• Competitive salary package plus superannuation.
• A supportive and professional working environment.
• Ongoing training and career development.
• Opportunity to work with a passionate and experienced team.
• Staff meals and employee benefits.
• The opportunity to contribute to one of Melbourne's exciting Japanese dining concepts.

About us

ÉN operates as a premium Japanese restaurant located in Melbourne CBD, specialising in authentic Japanese cuisine and exceptional Dining & Listening Bar experiences. Diners enjoy an intimate connection with the culinary arts. We are dedicated to sourcing the finest ingredients, maintaining rigorous quality standards, and creating memorable experiences for our guests. The venue will be built on a foundation of respect for Japanese culinary traditions, a passion for hospitality, and a commitment to excellence. Our team shares a common goal: to deliver outstanding service and authentic flavours that transport our guests to Japan with every visit.

Apply now

If you are an experienced Restaurant Manager or an Assistant Manager will strong track record with a passion for Japanese cuisine and exceptional hospitality, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your application including your CV, a cover letter detailing your relevant experience, and any references. Apply now to join the ÉN team and take your career to the next level in one of Melbourne's respected Japanese dining establishments.