Bar Manager in London

Bar Manager in London

London Full-Time 25396 - 31040 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
The Breakfast Group

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead and develop a dynamic bar team while crafting amazing cocktails.
  • Company: Join The Last Talisman, a vibrant venue in Bermondsey Street.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, weekly pay, free meals, and 50% staff discount.
  • Other info: Enjoy a fun, creative environment with real growth opportunities.
  • Why this job: Shape a new bar team and create innovative cocktail offerings.
  • Qualifications: Experience in bar management or as a skilled bartender, with a passion for mixology.

The predicted salary is between 25396 - 31040 £ per year.

Good fortune doesn't come to those who wait, but to those who explore. The Last Talisman is Bermondsey Street's home of expertly crafted cocktails and a sizzling Asian grill — mouth-watering small plates, bold flavours and beautifully designed spaces, right in the heart of one of London's best-loved food streets.

Our bar is where the venue really comes alive, and we're looking for a Bar Manager who can lead it that way — someone who knows drinks inside out, runs a tight, motivated team, and is just as comfortable behind the stick on a busy Friday night as they are managing rotas and stock the next morning. This is a late-evenings role at heart, running the bar and bar team through our busiest hours. If you live for a well-built cocktail, a slick service and a team that has your back, we want to talk to you.

THE ROLE

As Bar Manager, you'll take full ownership of the bar — leading, recruiting and developing your bar team, setting the drinks and service standards, and keeping the bar running smoothly through our late evening and weekend peaks. You'll manage rotas, stock and supplier relationships, drive the drinks and cocktail offering forward, and work closely with our Head Chef and management team to keep the whole venue in step.

WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR

  • Proven experience as a Bar Manager or experienced Assistant/Head Bartender ready to step up, ideally in a high-volume, cocktail-led bar, personal license holder
  • Strong, hands-on knowledge of drinks and mixology — classic and contemporary cocktails, spirits, and current bar trends
  • Confidence and availability to work late evenings, weekends and bank holidays, running the bar through its busiest hours
  • A confident, hands-on leader who can recruit, train and motivate a brand-new bar team
  • Commercial awareness — comfortable managing rotas, budgets, stock control and supplier relationships
  • Strong knowledge of licensing, health & safety and responsible service of alcohol
  • A Personal Licence holder, or willingness to obtain one
  • Ability to stay calm, organised and hands-on during high-volume, late-night service
  • Excellent communication skills and impeccable attention to detail
  • A collaborative mindset, working closely with the Head Chef and wider team to build something new

WHAT WE OFFER

  • A competitive salary, to be discussed and agreed at the venue
  • Weekly pay
  • A share of service charge
  • The chance to build and shape a brand-new bar team from an early stage
  • Real input into the cocktail list and drinks offering as it develops
  • Ongoing personal development and career guidance, with real opportunity to grow within The Breakfast Group
  • Pension scheme
  • Free meals on shift
  • 50% staff discount across every venue in The Breakfast Group
  • A fun, creative working environment in one of Bermondsey Street's most distinctive venues

THE VENUE

Expertly crafted cocktails and a sizzling Asian grill — eat, drink and unwind at The Last Talisman. Tucked into the heart of Bermondsey Street, just a short walk from London Bridge Station and Borough Market, we bring people together through bold flavours, crafted cocktails and immersive, beautifully designed spaces. It's a bar where craft and creativity matter, and where you'll have real freedom to make it your own.

ABOUT THE BREAKFAST GROUP

Founded in 1991, The Breakfast Group has spent over 30 years operating some of London's most vibrant and unique bars and restaurants. Our front-of-house, back-of-house and back-office teams share one passion: designing memorable spaces and experiences for busy Londoners to meet, eat, drink and catch up. Every venue in our group has its own identity — and every member of our team has the chance to grow with us.

READY TO RUN THE BAR?

If this sounds like the opportunity you've been waiting for, get in touch as soon as possible to discuss the role — and the package — further. We can't wait to meet you.

Bar Manager in London employer: The Breakfast Group

The Breakfast Group is an exceptional employer that fosters a vibrant and supportive work culture in the heart of London. With a focus on employee growth, we provide opportunities for culinary innovation and mentorship, allowing you to thrive in a busy kitchen environment while honing your skills alongside passionate professionals. Join us to be part of a team that values creativity and excellence in every dish.

The Breakfast Group

Contact Details:

The Breakfast Group Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Bar 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 The Breakfast Group. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!

Reach Out Directly to The Breakfast Group

Don't be shy about reaching out to The Breakfast Group 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 Bar Manager in London

Bar Management
Mixology
Cocktail Knowledge
Team Leadership
Recruitment and Training
Stock Control
Supplier Relationship Management

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 The Breakfast Group 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 The Breakfast Group

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!