Beverage Manager

An established, high-volume, upscale restaurant in Chicago's River North neighborhood is seeking a creative, hands-on Beverage Manager to lead and grow its beverage program. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, premium spirits selection, handcrafted cocktails, and exceptional hospitality, the restaurant offers an exciting opportunity for a beverage professional passionate about mixology, team development, and guest experience.

The Beverage Manager will oversee all aspects of beverage operations, including cocktail development, staff training, inventory management, vendor relations, beverage costing, and event support. This role will work closely with ownership, management, and culinary leadership to maintain high standards while driving innovation, profitability, and consistency throughout the beverage program.

Responsibilities

Leadership & Training: Lead, train, and inspire the bar team to deliver exceptional cocktails, product knowledge, and guest service.

Beverage Program Management: Develop and update cocktail menus, maintain accurate recipes and costing, and ensure all beverages align with the restaurant's brand and standards.

Inventory & Cost Control: Oversee beverage inventory, purchasing, waste reduction, and pour cost management while tracking performance through reporting.

Vendor Relations: Build and maintain strong relationships with liquor, beer, wine, and mixer vendors; negotiate pricing, samples, activations, and partnerships.

Events & Marketing: Support private events, tastings, brand collaborations, and beverage-driven promotions in partnership with the management team.

Guest Experience: Maintain an energetic, welcoming bar environment and engage with guests to ensure a memorable experience.

Compliance & Safety: Ensure all beverage operations adhere to health, safety, sanitation, and liquor regulations.

Requirements

• Minimum 1 year of bar or beverage management experience in a high-volume or upscale restaurant
• Strong knowledge of cocktails, spirits, wine, and beer
• Tequila and agave spirits knowledge strongly preferred
• Proven ability to manage inventory, purchasing, beverage costing, and pour cost controls
• Experience training, developing, and motivating a bar team
• Strong communication, leadership, and organizational skills
• Ability to work nights, weekends, and holidays as needed

Compensation & Benefits

Salary: $65,000–$80,000, based on experience

Benefits & Perks:

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Vision insurance
• Paid time off
• Paid training
• Employee dining discounts
• Potential performance bonuses
• Opportunities for professional growth and advancement

Required Skills

• Cocktail Development
• Mixology
• Beverage Cost Control
• Inventory Management
• Vendor Negotiation
• Staff Training & Development
• Guest Engagement
• Event Support
• Team Leadership
• Hospitality Management