Restaurant Manager

Palooka Stratford; Cairns Regional; On-site; AUD 78,000 - 83,000; Full time

Job summary

Palooka Stratford in Cairns, QLD is seeking an experienced Restaurant Manager to lead our evening operations and contribute to our reputation for warm, professional service and elevated food and beverage offerings.

With a minimum of 3 years’ experience in a similar role, you will manage the food and beverage team, oversee reservations and guest experiences, and maintain service standards across dinner shifts, weekends, and public holidays.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years’ experience in a similar role.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• RSA certification is required.
• Solid knowledge of Australian and international wines.

Responsibilities

• Ensure every guest experience is professional, memorable, and exceeds expectations.
• Lead, train, and coordinate the food and beverage team.
• Maintain up-to-date service manuals, wine lists, and daily specials.
• Oversee restaurant presentation and floor operations.
• Monitor team performance and provide clear communication during service.
• Manage reservations, greet and seat guests.
• Handle guest requests and resolve complaints with care and efficiency.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Guest focus

Team management

Food & beverage knowledge

Education

RSA certification

Job description

Location: Stratford, Cairns, QLD 4870
Salary: $77,500–$82,500 p.a. | Full-Time

Palooka is on the lookout for an experienced Restaurant Manager to join our passionate team and help lead our evening operations.

An established modern dining institution with a loyal local following, Palooka is known for delivering warm, professional service and elevated food and beverage offerings. We operate five days a week for breakfast and lunch, with four busy dinner services.

We’re seeking someone with a minimum of 3 years’ experience in a similar role, who brings energy, professionalism, and a genuine love for hospitality.

Key Responsibilities

• Ensure every guest experience is professional, memorable, and exceeds expectations

• Lead, train, and coordinate the food and beverage team

• Maintain up-to-date service manuals, wine lists, and daily specials

• Oversee restaurant presentation and floor operations

• Monitor team performance and provide clear communication during service

• Manage reservations, greet and seat guests

• Handle guest requests and resolve complaints with care and efficiency

What We’re Looking For

• Availability for evening, weekend, and public holiday shifts

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

• Strong leadership qualities with a hands-on, guest-focused approach

• RSA certification

• A solid knowledge of Australian and international wines

• A genuine passion for hospitality and customer service

You’ll be joining a supportive, close-knit team in a fast-paced but rewarding environment. Attention to detail, a cool head under pressure, and a collaborative spirit are key to thriving in this role.

If this sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you.