Head Bartender - New Opening - MANA

Ma / Na; Greater London; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious dining establishment in Mayfair is seeking a Head Bartender to craft an exceptional bar experience. You will develop a cocktail program and mentor junior bartenders while ensuring high standards of service. The ideal candidate has experience in fine dining and understands both classic and modern mixology techniques. This is an exciting opportunity to join a flagship opening, collaborate with world-class chefs, and be part of a creative team focused on delivering memorable guest experiences.

Benefits

Competitive salary and service charge

Opportunity for professional development

Staff meals and wellness initiatives

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Head Bartender or senior bartender in a fine dining or high-end cocktail venue.
• Strong understanding of classic and contemporary techniques and flavour profiles.
• Knowledge of Japanese spirits, ingredients and bar culture.

Responsibilities

• Support bar menu creation and concept development.
• Prepare and serve cocktails to the highest standard.
• Help curate an innovative and balanced cocktail selection.
• Collaborate with kitchen and beverage teams for harmony.
• Mentor junior bartenders and support ongoing training.
• Maintain excellent presentation and cleanliness behind the bar.
• Assist with stock control and supplier relationships.

Skills

Classic and contemporary bartending techniques

Knowledge of Japanese spirits

Excellent guest communication

Attention to detail

Creative curiosity

Job description

Head Bartender – MANA

Opening in January 2026 in Mayfair, MA / NA is inspired by the Japanese belief that every ingredient holds an invisible energy shaped by nature and human craft. Mana is a spiritual force that is felt rather than seen. It transforms emotion into experience, and a meal into memory. MA / NA will offer a seamless connection between restaurant and bar. Refined Japanese dishes will sit alongside a world‑class cocktail, wine and sake programme. Cocktails flow naturally into dinner, and dinner returns to drinks. Every detail, from service and design to sound and light, is intentional and celebrates the extraordinary within the simple.

Location

30 Upper Grosvenor Street, Mayfair

Role

As Head Bartender, you will help shape and deliver an exceptional bar experience that balances precision, creativity and craftsmanship. You will support the development of a cocktail programme that reflects harmony, discovery and respect for technique. You will guide your team and guests through a journey of flavour, texture and emotion that reflects the energy and philosophy of MA / NA. Working alongside the Bar Manager, Head Sommelier and Executive Chef, you will help connect cocktails with cuisine, wine and sake to create a smooth and memorable guest experience. This role is suited to someone who values artistry, discipline and emotional intelligence. You understand that the right drink at the right moment can become a lasting memory.

Key Responsibilities

• Support bar menu creation and concept development
• Prepare and serve cocktails to the highest standard with precision and consistency
• Help curate an innovative and balanced cocktail selection inspired by Japanese ingredients and modern mixology
• Collaborate with the kitchen and beverage teams to ensure harmony between food, wine, sake and cocktails
• Mentor junior bartenders and support ongoing training and development
• Maintain excellent presentation, organisation and cleanliness behind the bar
• Assist with stock control, ordering and supplier relationships
• Represent MA / NA at tastings, events and industry collaborations when required

What We Are Looking For

• Proven experience as a Head Bartender or senior bartender in a fine dining or high‑end cocktail venue
• Strong understanding of classic and contemporary techniques and flavour profiles
• Knowledge of Japanese spirits, ingredients and bar culture
• Creative curiosity and a disciplined approach to craft
• Refined palate and outstanding attention to detail
• Excellent guest communication and storytelling ability
• Calm, organised and professional under pressure
• Passion for helping shape one of London's most exciting new openings

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and service charge
• Opportunity to be part of a flagship opening within the Thesleff Group
• Collaboration with world‑class chefs, sommeliers and beverage specialists
• Continuous training, tastings and professional development
• Staff meals, wellness initiatives and a supportive, creative environment

Join the MA / NA Opening Team

If you are driven by balance, curiosity and craftsmanship, and want to help shape a bar experience where emotion meets precision, we would love to hear from you.