Sommelier - New Opening - Sale e Pepe Mare

Sale e Pepe; Greater London; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious dining venue in London is seeking a passionate Sommelier to join the opening team at Sale e Pepe Mare. You will provide exceptional wine service, guide guests through selections, and maintain wine standards. Ideal candidates will have experience in a premium restaurant, solid wine knowledge, and a passion for hospitality. This role promises a dynamic work environment, opportunities for career growth, and excellent employee benefits, including competitive salary and private medical insurance.

Benefits

Highly competitive salary

Private medical insurance after probation

Study support scheme

Complimentary meals while on duty

50% staff discount

People-focused workplace culture

Excellent career development opportunities

Qualifications

• Previous experience as a Sommelier or Junior Sommelier in a premium, fast-paced restaurant.
• Confidence in guest interaction, able to communicate technical knowledge warm and clearly.
• Strong organisational skills with an interest in cellar management and stock control.

Responsibilities

• Provide warm, confident, and knowledgeable wine service to guests.
• Support the Head Sommelier team in managing the wine list and cellar.
• Guide guests through the wine selection, tailoring recommendations to their tastes.

Skills

Solid wine knowledge

Strong understanding of food and wine pairings

Confidence in guest interaction

Attention to detail

Job description

Sommelier - New Opening - Sale e Pepe Mare

Sommelier - Sale e Pepe Mare at The Langham, London

Set to open within The Langham, London, this marks a new chapter in the storied legacy of Sale e Pepe, the iconic Knightsbridge restaurant that has defined Italian dining in the capital since 1974 - a fitting partnership that sees two London icons come together under one roof.

Sale e Pepe Mare will capture the sun-soaked energy, vibrant dishes, and unmistakable sense of la dolce vita.

Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the restaurant celebrates the finest seafood while offering a sophisticated dining and bar experience inspired by the Mediterranean coast.

We are seeking a passionate, knowledgeable, and guest-focused Sommelier to join our opening team and help bring an exceptional wine experience to life at Sale e Pepe Mare.

You will deliver refined, engaging wine service and play a key role in ensuring every guest enjoys a memorable and elevated dining experience in the spirit of Italian hospitality.

About the Role

The Sommelier is an integral member of the restaurant's beverage team, working closely with the Head Sommelier and Assistant Head Sommelier to deliver a best-in-class wine offering.

You will be a visible presence on the floor, guiding guests through the wine list, supporting food and wine pairings, and helping to maintain the organisation and integrity of the cellar.

In this role, you will:

• Provide warm, confident, and knowledgeable wine service to guests
• Support the Head Sommelier team in managing the wine list and cellar
• Guide guests through the wine selection, tailoring recommendations to their tastes and the menu
• Assist with food and wine pairings in collaboration with the kitchen team
• Help maintain stock control, cellar organisation, and accurate records
• Participate in training and sharing wine knowledge with the wider service team
• Uphold and champion the restaurant's service standards and guest-first culture

About Us

Thesleff Group is a growing hospitality group with a collection of standout venues including Los Mochis, Sale e Pepe, Viajante87, Juno Omakase, and Luna Omakase.

We are known for combining innovative food, stylish design, and genuine hospitality.

At Sale e Pepe Mare, we honour the heritage of a London classic while embracing a new era of coastal Italian dining.

With our home at The Langham, we bring together sophistication, tradition, and the spirited warmth of Mediterranean hospitality.

If you are passionate about wine, food, and delivering an elevated guest experience, join our dynamic, dedicated opening team and be part of something truly special.

Requirements

• Previous experience as a Sommelier or Junior Sommelier in a premium, fast-paced restaurant
• Solid wine knowledge
• Strong understanding of food and wine pairings; Mediterranean / Italian and seafood experience is a plus
• Confidence in guest interaction, with the ability to communicate technical knowledge with warmth and clarity
• High standards of presentation, professionalism, and attention to detail
• Strong organisational skills with an interest in cellar management and stock control
• A genuine passion for hospitality and providing memorable guest experiences
• Proof of right to work / pre-settled or settled status in the UK

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary
• Private medical insurance / health care after completion of probation (in line with company policy)
• Study support scheme
• Complimentary meals while on duty
• 50% staff discount when dining with family and friends
• People-focused, supportive and inclusive workplace culture
• Excellent career development opportunities across the expanding Thesleff Group
• Internal training and career development opportunities
• Memorable staff events and celebrations

If you are a dedicated and enthusiastic wine professional with a passion for hospitality and refined service, we invite you to apply for the position of Sommelier at Sale e Pepe Mare.

Thesleff Group is an equal-opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion within the workplace.

We welcome applications from all qualified individuals regardless of race, colour, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other legally protected status.