At a Glance
- Tasks: Deliver exceptional wine and sake experiences while guiding guests through thoughtful pairings.
- Company: Join the exciting new MA/NA, blending Japanese philosophy with fine dining.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, service charge, ongoing training, and wellness initiatives.
- Why this job: Be part of a flagship opening and collaborate with world-class chefs and sommeliers.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Sommelier with a passion for Japanese beverage culture.
- Other info: Dynamic environment focused on creativity and professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 Β£ per year.
MA/NA is born from the Japanese philosophy that every ingredient carries an invisible power - a life-force shaped by nature and the hands that honour it. 'Mana' is the spiritual energy that exists beneath the surface of all things. It is felt rather than seen - transforming emotion into experience, and a meal into memory. Guided by this belief, MA/NA offers a seamless blend of restaurant and bar - refined Japanese dishes alongside an exceptional cocktail, wine, and sake list. Here, cocktails flow effortlessly into dinner, and dinner naturally returns to drinks. Every element - from design and service to sound and light - is intentional. Each detail celebrates the extraordinary within the simple.
The Role - Sommelier
As Sommelier at MA/NA, you will be an integral part of delivering an exceptional beverage experience that harmonises wine, sake, and Japanese cuisine. Working closely with the Head Sommelier and beverage leadership team, you will support the day-to-day execution of the wine and sake programme, guiding guests through thoughtful pairings and stories that connect each bottle to its origin, craft, and energy. This is a hands-on service role suited to a Sommelier with strong fundamentals, genuine curiosity, and a desire to grow within a world-class opening - someone who values precision, warmth, and emotional intelligence on the floor.
Key Responsibilities
- Deliver confident, intuitive wine and sake service aligned with MA/NA's philosophy
- Guide guests through pairings, recommendations, and storytelling with clarity and warmth
- Support the execution and upkeep of the wine and sake list, including iconic producers and artisanal discoveries
- Assist with sake service and guest education around Japanese beverages
- Collaborate closely with the kitchen, bar, and front-of-house teams to ensure seamless food and drink synergy
- Support cellar organisation, stock rotation, and inventory control
- Participate in tastings, training sessions, and ongoing beverage education
- Uphold the highest standards of service, presentation, and professionalism at all times
What We're Looking For
- Proven experience as a Sommelier in a fine dining or high-end hospitality environment
- Solid knowledge of international wine regions, styles, and producers
- Interest in sake and Japanese beverage culture (certification an advantage but not essential)
- A refined palate with a thoughtful, guest-focused approach to service
- Strong communication skills and a natural storytelling ability
- Organised, calm, and collaborative working style
- A passion for learning and developing within an ambitious opening team
What We Offer
- Competitive salary and service charge package
- Opportunity to be part of a flagship opening within the Thesleff Group
- Close collaboration with world-class chefs, sommeliers, and bar professionals
- Ongoing training, tastings, and professional development
- Staff meals, wellness initiatives, and a supportive, creative working environment
If you are guided by balance, curiosity, and craft - and want to be part of a team that transforms emotion into experience - we would love to hear from you.
Sommelier - New Opening - MANA in London employer: Ma/Na
Contact Detail:
Ma/Na Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice π€«
We think this is how you could land Sommelier - New Opening - MANA in London
β¨Tip Number 1
Get to know the team! Before your interview, do a bit of research on MA/NA and its philosophy. Understanding their approach to food and drink will help you connect with the Head Sommelier and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their journey.
β¨Tip Number 2
Practice your storytelling skills! As a Sommelier, you'll need to share the stories behind each bottle. Think about how you can weave narratives around your favourite wines or sakes, making them come alive for guests. This will set you apart during interviews.
β¨Tip Number 3
Show off your passion for Japanese beverages! If you have any experience with sake or Japanese wine culture, make sure to highlight it. Even if youβre still learning, expressing your enthusiasm can demonstrate your commitment to growing within this unique environment.
β¨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing candidates who take the initiative to reach out directly. It shows you're serious about joining the MA/NA team and gives us a chance to see your personality shine through in your application.
We think you need these skills to ace Sommelier - New Opening - MANA in London
Some tips for your application π«‘
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your love for wine, sake, and Japanese cuisine shine through. We want to see your genuine curiosity and enthusiasm for the role, so donβt hold back!
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your relevant experience as a Sommelier in fine dining or high-end hospitality. Weβre looking for those solid fundamentals, so connect your past roles to what weβre all about at MA/NA.
Be Personal and Engaging: Your application should tell a story! Use clear and warm language to convey your personality and how you connect with guests. Remember, we value emotional intelligence and storytelling just as much as technical skills.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. Itβs the best way for us to receive your application and ensures youβre considered for this exciting opportunity at MA/NA!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ma/Na
β¨Know Your Wines and Sakes
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of international wine regions and Japanese beverages. Be prepared to discuss specific producers and styles, as well as how they pair with different dishes. This will show your genuine interest and expertise in the field.
β¨Master the Art of Storytelling
As a Sommelier, storytelling is key. Think about how you can connect each bottle to its origin and craft. Practice sharing engaging anecdotes about wines and sakes that resonate with the philosophy of MA/NA. This will help you create memorable experiences for guests.
β¨Showcase Your Service Skills
During the interview, demonstrate your ability to deliver confident and intuitive service. You might be asked to role-play a guest interaction, so be ready to showcase your warmth and emotional intelligence while guiding someone through a tasting or pairing.
β¨Emphasise Collaboration
Highlight your experience working closely with kitchen and bar teams. Discuss how youβve contributed to seamless food and drink synergy in past roles. This will show that you understand the importance of teamwork in delivering an exceptional dining experience.