At a Glance
- Tasks: Deliver exceptional wine service and enhance guests' dining experiences.
- Company: Join Plates, a plant-led food group with a vibrant culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, opportunities for growth, and a dynamic work environment.
- Other info: Perfect for those looking to grow in the hospitality industry.
- Why this job: Share your passion for wine and build relationships with guests and suppliers.
- Qualifications: Experience in wine service and a love for sharing knowledge.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Location: 320 Old St, London EC1V 9DR
Type: Full-time
Plates Food Studio and Restaurant Plates, founded by Keeley and Kirk Haworth, is an ambitious and plant‑led food group with divisions in London and South‑West France.
Responsibilities
- As Sommelier, you will occupy an important position within our team.
- You will hold a central position on the main floor of the restaurant so you must be personable, passionate, and work efficiently.
- The sommelier station will be in full view of the guests, so cleanliness and organisation of your station is really important.
- The main objective of the sommelier role is to deliver an exceptional wine service for guests – guiding them through the wine list and the pairings, to enhance their dining experience.
- A big part of the role is building good relationships through attention to detail, recalling past exchanges, gaining trust to explore more adventurous and diverse choices – this is particularly important when looking after VIPs, knowing when to go the extra mile to make them feel extra special.
- Supporting the Head of Wine, you'll be expected to understand costings for both bottles and BTG offerings and ensure the correct margins are set for pairings, and that the list overall is hitting targets set by the company.
- You will also support with weekly orders to maintain inventory levels of the cellar and thus provide adequate stock at all times.
- You will be expected to cultivate good relationships with wine suppliers to encourage allocations, good pricing and open up the possibility of event coordination (e.g. winemaker dinners).
- Attending tastings is important, with both the Head of Wine and individually.
- This role will also demand an element of training and knowledge sharing with the team.
- Paying particular attention to junior Wine Waiters who may be starting out on their wine journey and will benefit enormously from your know‑how.
- Sharing your joy and love of wine can be incredibly rewarding for you and for the team.
- It will also ensure a standard of care should you be absent from your post.
Sommelier in London employer: Job Search Place Limited
Plates Food Studio and Restaurant is an exceptional employer that fosters a vibrant and inclusive work culture, where passion for plant-led cuisine and fine wine thrives. Located in the heart of London, we offer our team members opportunities for personal and professional growth, including training and mentorship in wine service, while enjoying the dynamic atmosphere of a busy restaurant. Join us to be part of a dedicated team that values creativity, attention to detail, and building meaningful relationships with guests and suppliers alike.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sommelier in London
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like Job Search Place Limited. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Job Search Place Limited
Don't be shy about reaching out to Job Search Place Limited directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Sommelier in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about Job Search Place Limited and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at Job Search Place Limited
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!