At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead daily restaurant operations and develop an exciting wine programme.
- Company: Join KĀIO, a dynamic and innovative restaurant in London.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonuses, staff meals, and career progression.
- Other info: Be part of a passionate team and enjoy wine education opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape exceptional guest experiences and influence one of London's top dining destinations.
- Qualifications: 3-5 years in restaurant management or as a Head Sommelier; WSET Level 3 minimum.
The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.
This is a hands-on leadership position responsible for managing the daily restaurant operation while leading and developing KĀIO's wine programme.
The successful candidate will ensure impeccable service standards, drive commercial performance, inspire the front-of-house team, and continually enhance our guest journey through exceptional hospitality and wine expertise.
The role requires someone equally comfortable leading a busy dinner service, mentoring the team, engaging with guests, managing financial performance, and continuously developing one of London's most exciting wine programmes.
Overview of the responsibilities, but not limited to
- Operational Leadership
- Lead the restaurant floor during service ensuring seamless execution.
- Deliver exceptional guest experiences through genuine hospitality.
- Act as Manager on Duty during assigned shifts.
- Ensure all service standards and SOPs are consistently followed.
- Support the General Manager with operational strategy and decision making.
- Wine Programme
- Lead all aspects of the wine programme.
- Curate, maintain and continuously evolve the wine list.
- Build strong supplier relationships and negotiate advantageous purchasing.
- Organise regular wine tastings for guests and team.
- Financial Performance
- Drive beverage revenue and restaurant profitability.
- Assist with budgeting and forecasting.
- Control purchasing and stock levels.
- Minimise wastage and analyse sales performance.
- Team Leadership
- Recruit, train and develop the FOH team.
- Conduct performance reviews.
- Build a positive and accountable culture.
- Lead by example through visible floor presence.
- Guest Experience
- Build relationships with regular guests.
- Handle VIP reservations and special occasions.
- Support private dining and wine-focused events.
- Compliance
- Ensure compliance with licensing legislation.
- Maintain food safety, hygiene and Health & Safety standards.
- Ensure responsible alcohol service.
- Maintain HACCP compliance.
Skills & Experience
- Minimum 3–5 years in a Restaurant Manager and/or Head Sommelier role within premium or luxury hospitality.
- WSET Level 3 minimum (Level 4 or CMS desirable).
- Strong operational management and commercial awareness.
- Excellent leadership and communication skills.
- Fine dining or Michelin-standard background preferred.
- Experience with Seven Rooms, Toast POS or similar systems desirable.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary
- Performance-related bonus
- Service charge participation
- Staff meals on duty
- Wine education and professional development
- Career progression opportunities
- Employee discounts
- Opportunity to shape one of London's most exciting premium restaurant wine programmes
Why Join KĀIO?
At KĀIO, we believe exceptional hospitality is created by exceptional people.
This is an opportunity to join a dynamic leadership team at an exciting stage of the restaurant's journey, where your expertise, creativity, and passion will directly influence our success and help establish KĀIO as one of London's leading dining destinations.
Restaurant Manager in London employer: Kaio Restaurant
KĀIO is an exceptional employer that values its team members and fosters a vibrant work culture centred around hospitality excellence and wine expertise. With competitive salaries, performance-related bonuses, and opportunities for professional development, employees are encouraged to grow within the company while shaping one of London's most exciting premium restaurant wine programmes. Join us in a dynamic environment where your leadership will directly impact our guest experiences and the restaurant's success.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Restaurant Manager 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 Kaio Restaurant. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Kaio Restaurant
Don't be shy about reaching out to Kaio Restaurant 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 Restaurant Manager 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 Kaio Restaurant 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 Kaio Restaurant
✨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!