Restaurant Manager - The Piano Café - Freshwater in Afton

We’re a bustling café in the heart of Freshwater that re-opened in January 2025 under new ownership with Hannah & Tom. Since then, we’ve been growing steadily and are now recruiting for a brand new senior role. This is an exciting opportunity to work as part of a close-knit team in a lively, guest-focused environment in a role with responsibility and creativity (managing the day-to-day of the café, helping us plan and create events). If you join us, you’ll become part of a small, supportive team that works hard, has fun, and takes real pride in what we do.

About Us: We operate seven days a week and regularly serve up to 300 guests per day, offering an all day brunch menu, homemade bakes, local coffee and produce, and a relaxed, friendly vibe. We’re proud to offer exceptional service, seasonal food, and a guest experience that feels thoughtful and genuine – never rushed or scripted. Although we’re “just a café”, we take what we do seriously and aim for consistency, friendliness and excellence in everything – from the way we present food to the way we greet our guests.

About the Role: This leadership role is for someone who enjoys being on their feet, loves working with people, and thrives in a busy, guest-facing environment. You’ll be our role model for service and standards, and will lead our FOH team in everything they do: from taking orders and delivering plates to sharing menu specials and setting the tone for a great guest experience. On busy days you will lead the team, manage all bookings and control the bar and kitchen pace. You will work closely with the owners to plan events & menu changes, and oversee bar stock ordering. The role is 5 days a week in season (starting in August), and 4 days from November, typically working 9am – 4pm shifts. Friday evenings are special to us, our locals and visitors year round and we would want the successful applicant to host these alongside Tom in the kitchen.

Is this you?

• You are looking for a permanent 4-5 day a week role.
• You have a genuine passion for hospitality, people and good food.
• You want a role with development + responsibility.
• You have experience leading a team.
• You enjoy creating great experiences and making people feel welcome.
• You’re confident, adaptable, and can stay calm under pressure.
• You have a passion for constant improvement and self-education.
• You’re happy working in a fast-paced environment with a small, inclusive team.
• You’re proactive – spotting what needs doing and taking the initiative.
• You’re professional, punctual, and reliable.
• You’re available to work weekends and able to travel to Freshwater for 9am starts.
• You’d enjoy and own hosting our Friday night dinners.

Responsibilities:

• Leading shifts: supporting the team in their individual roles, controlling the pace on all drink and food orders, creating a fun and positive environment, ensuring all guests are looked after.
• Greeting and seating guests with warmth and professionalism.
• Taking orders clearly and confidently, using our till system.
• Running food and drinks and keeping service areas tidy and organised.
• Sharing knowledge about our menu, daily specials and café ethos.
• Creating a welcoming atmosphere – from small gestures to genuine conversations, building relationships with our locals.
• Working closely with both FOH and kitchen teams.
• Managing and maintaining high standards of cleanliness and organisation.
• Controlling all stock levels for the bar: orders, deliveries and stock takes within budget.
• Supporting the café during busy periods and managing transitions smoothly.