Pre-Opening General Manager Restaurant/Bar

Dixie Recruitment; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A premier recruitment agency is seeking an experienced General Manager for a new restaurant and rooftop bar in Cape Town. The ideal candidate will have at least 5 years of experience in a similar role and a strong background in quality restaurants. Responsibilities include leading the pre-opening setup, managing daily operations, and ensuring compliance with regulations. If you're people-focused and thrive in a fast-paced environment, this opportunity might be perfect for you.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years’ experience as a General Manager or Senior Restaurant Manager.
• Strong background in quality restaurants or lifestyle venues.
• Proven ability to lead, train, and retain strong teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead the pre-opening setup, including recruitment and training.
• Oversee daily operations of the restaurant and rooftop bar.
• Drive service consistency and guest experience.
• Manage budgets, costs, stock, and labour efficiently.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and licensing regulations.

Skills

Leadership skills

Financial management

Customer service

Team training

Operational compliance

Job description

Overview

FULL-TIME | PRE-OPENING & OPERATIONS

We are looking for an experienced General Manager to lead the pre-opening and day-to-day operations of a new restaurant and rooftop bar in the heart of Cape Town.

This role suits a hands-on GM who understands modern, urban hospitality — someone commercially sharp, people-focused, and comfortable running a busy, high-energy venue.

Minimum Requirements

• Minimum 5 years’ experience as a General Manager or Senior Restaurant Manager

• Strong background in quality restaurants, bars, or lifestyle venues

• Pre-opening experience highly advantageous

• Solid understanding of financials, GP control, stock, and labour management

• Proven ability to lead, train, and retain strong teams

• Excellent knowledge of service standards, operations, and compliance

• Flexible to work nights, weekends, and peak trading periods

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the pre-opening setup, including recruitment and training

• Oversee daily operations of the restaurant and rooftop bar

• Drive service consistency and guest experience

• Manage budgets, costs, stock, and labour efficiently

• Lead and motivate management and front-line teams

• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and licensing regulations

• Be visible and present during service

The Right Fit

You are confident, organised, and guest-focused, with the ability to balance vibe and discipline. You thrive in fast-paced environments and know how to run a venue with energy, while remaining professional killing its personality.