Bar Manager

Osaka Restaurants; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401k

Insurance (medical, vision, dental, & 

Brand exposure

Growth opportunities

Dynamic multicultural team

Competitive compensation

Job summary

Osaka Restaurants in Chicago, IL is seeking an experienced Beverage Manager to lead the bar program at a premier dining destination. You will design and execute a world-class bar strategy, from menu innovation to supplier partnerships and team development, in a high-energy environment.

You will mentor the Head Bartender and bar team, develop signature cocktails, balance creativity with profitability, and analyze P&L metrics to optimize margins while maintaining exceptional guest experiences.

Qualifications

• 1+ year as a Bar Manager and 2+ years as Head Bartender leading teams.
• Strong foundation in mixology and cocktail preparation; beverage program development.
• Comfort with P&L analysis, cost control, inventory management, and financial reporting.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the bar team, mentoring the Head Bartender and staff.
• Design and innovate beverage programs including signature cocktails and wine pairings.
• Analyze P&L, manage COGS, inventory, and optimize margins without compromising quality.
• Oversee purchasing, supplier relationships, stock control, and guest interactions.
• Build relationships with beverage suppliers and negotiate pouring contracts.
• Present performance insights and recommendations to leadership.

Skills

Mixology mastery

Cocktail development

Beverage program leadership

P&L knowledge

Team mentoring

Guest experience

Education

Bar Management Certification

Hospitality training

Tools

Microsoft Office

Windows OS

Job description

Chicago, IL | Full-Time | Premium Fine Dining Concept

About The Opportunity

Are you a passionate mixologist and hospitality leader ready to build something extraordinary?

We're looking for an experienced Beverage Manager to lead our bar program at a premier dining destination in Chicago.

In this role, you'll have the autonomy to design and execute a world-class bar strategy, from menu innovation and supplier partnerships to team development and financial performance. You'll collaborate directly with our leadership team and be empowered to bring your creative vision to life in a dynamic, high-energy environment.

What You'll Do

• Lead & Develop: Mentor and inspire the Head Bartender and bar team, creating a culture of excellence, continuous learning, and operational success
• Create & Innovate: Design compelling beverage programs that balance creativity with profitability—including signature cocktails, wine pairings, and unique offerings that reflect current trends and guest preferences
• Drive Profitability: Analyze P&L metrics, manage COGS and inventory, and identify opportunities to optimize margins without compromising quality
• Manage Operations: Oversee purchasing, supplier relationships, stock control, and ensure every guest interaction exceeds our hospitality standards
• Partner Strategically: Build and maintain relationships with key beverage suppliers, negotiate pouring contracts, and capitalize on promotional opportunities
• Report & Improve: Present clear performance insights and recommendations to leadership, demonstrating the bar's contribution to overall restaurant success

What We're Looking For

• Experience: 1+ year as a Bar Manager and 2+ years as a Head Bartender with proven success leading teams
• Expertise: Strong foundation in mixology, cocktail preparation, and beverage program development; wine pairing knowledge is valuable
• Business Acumen: Comfort with P&L analysis, cost control, inventory management, and financial reporting
• Leadership: Ability to mentor, motivate, and develop talent in a fast-paced environment
• Cultural Fit: Passion for hospitality, attention to detail, and genuine enthusiasm for creating memorable guest experiences
• Preferred Additions: Familiarity with Asian flavor profiles, barista skills, or international mixology credentials

Education

Formal training or certifications in Bar Management, Mixology, or Hospitality is a plus but not required—demonstrated expertise counts.

Technical Skills

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Windows systems
• Advanced English communication skills (written and verbal)
• Food Safety Certification (or willingness to obtain)

What we offer:

401k

Medical, vision, dental, and life insurance are provided to all employees.

The chance to work with an internationally recognized brand

Growth and development opportunities

Dynamic, multicultural team environment

Competitive salary and benefits package

#Hiring #ChicagoJobs #Hospitality #FineDining #OsakaChicago #Restaurant #NowHiring