At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic bar team, crafting exceptional drinks and unforgettable guest experiences.
- Company: Join KOL, a Michelin-starred restaurant celebrating British-Mexican cuisine.
- Benefits: Enjoy a 4-day work week, 50% staff discount, and free meals on shift.
- Other info: Opportunities for career growth and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Be part of an award-winning team and elevate your bartending skills.
- Qualifications: 2+ years in a similar role with strong leadership and communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 30000 £ per year.
A team-player. We believe that our people are stronger together and support each other, no matter what department they work in. Passionate and knowledgeable about food, wine and hospitality. Able to exceed guests’ expectations, by following KOL Service Steps and bringing their own personality to the guest journey. Able to work with integrity, excellent attention to detail and strong communication skills. A hands-on, natural leader who can support the General Manager to nurture and grow an excellent drink offering orientated around genuine hospitality. A champion of our values and ethos, motivating the team to be always working to a ‘best in class’ level. An expert in working with fresh, top-quality ingredients and building relationships with our world leading drinks partners. Responsible for their knowledge and learning in their job role, always looking to consistently be the best and get the best out of their peers. An experienced leader, able to recruit, train and ensure standards and guest experiences are maintained to KOL standards. Experienced in a similar restaurant and bar role for two years or more.
As a Head Bartender at KOL, we offer you:
- Work-life balance of 4 days per week (KOL & AT BOH only)
- 50% staff discount across all MJMK restaurants
- Free staff meals while on shift
- Up to £500 team referral bonus
- Opportunity to develop your career with MJMK Restaurants
- Enhanced maternity and paternity pay after your first year with us
- Extra day’s holiday every year you’re with us, up to 5 extra days
- Wide range of benefits from Hospitality Action - Including: mental health & well-being support, Benefits Hub with retail discounts, wellness podcast, nutrition-focused recipes, digital gym, mindfulness meditation, as well as Employee Assistance Program
- Company sick pay after one year of service
About KOL
At KOL, part of the MJMK Restaurants group, we source and celebrate the finest expressions of British ingredients, championing wild food and seasonality to create dishes that reflect the bright, fresh flavours of Mexican cooking. The kitchen team is headed up by Chef Patron Santiago Lastra and was awarded a Michelin star in 2022, followed by being named 23rd in the World’s 50 Best in 2023 and rising to 17th in 2024. Respect and understanding are central to our work. Before ingredients and dishes, we invest in the people and producers who trust us to represent their culture and traditions and our team also reflects this. As KOL continues its success, we’re looking for a Bar Manager to join the team, who will support the seamless running of the bar by providing a highly efficient and effective service, ensuring standards are maintained.
About MJMK Restaurants
MJMK Restaurants own and operate a collection of award-winning restaurants. Founded in 2018 by lifelong friends Jake Kasumov and Marco Mendes, our journey began with Casa do Frango. In 2020, we partnered with chef patron Santiago Lastra to open KOL, a restaurant in Marylebone celebrating Mexican cuisine with British ingredients. KOL has since earned a Michelin Star and been named one of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants. In 2024 saw two new ventures: Fonda, a contemporary Mexican concept in Mayfair - our second collaboration with Santiago Lastra - and AngloThai in Marylebone, a debut restaurant from husband-and-wife John and Desiree Chantarasak, blending Thai flavours with British ingredients. Within three months of opening, AngloThai earned a Michelin star. In the 2025 National Restaurant Awards, AngloThai was named The Square Opening of the Year and ranked 7th in the Top 100 list, followed by KOL at number 50. Luso, a contemporary Portuguese restaurant in Fitzrovia, opened in September 2025.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Bartender
✨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 MJMK Restaurants. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to MJMK Restaurants
Don't be shy about reaching out to MJMK Restaurants 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 Head Bartender
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 MJMK Restaurants 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 MJMK Restaurants
✨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!
