About the position
Nestled in the heart of the renowned Stellenbosch wine valley, the estate combines world-class wines with a gastronomic experience that celebrates local flavours, culture, and history. Set on a historic wine farm with breathtaking views, our fine dining restaurant offers an exceptional culinary journey with a focus on seasonal, sustainable ingredients paired with our estate’s finest wines. We are seeking a dynamic and passionate Restaurant Manager to lead and elevate our dining experience to new heights.
Role Overview:
As the Fine Dining Restaurant Manager, you will be at the helm of our exceptional restaurant, ensuring that every guest enjoys a memorable and sophisticated dining experience. You will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of restaurant operations, including front-of-house, service, team management, and guest relations, all while maintaining the high standards of quality, hospitality, and professionalism that our guests expect.
Requirements:
- Fine Dining Expertise: Proven experience in managing a fine dining restaurant, with a deep understanding of service excellence and luxury guest experiences.
- Silver Service Knowledge: Advanced knowledge and application of classical silver service techniques, ensuring consistency in guest experience.
- Wine & Beverage Expertise: Extensive wine knowledge (preferably WSET Level 2/3 or equivalent), with strong understanding of wine pairing, wine service, and cellar management. In-depth cocktail and mixology knowledge to complement the beverage offering.
- Leadership & Training: Strong interpersonal and coaching skills, with the ability to train, mentor, and upskill staff to consistently deliver elevated service standards.
- Guest Experience: Ability to anticipate and personalize guest needs, creating memorable dining moments while handling high-profile clientele with discretion and professionalism.
- Operational Excellence: Skilled in reservations management, table allocations, and pacing of service to enhance the overall dining flow.
- Attention to Detail: Keen eye for table presentation, mise en place, and ambiance (lighting, music, décor) in line with fine dining standards.
- Menu Knowledge: Comprehensive understanding of menu items, including ingredients, cooking techniques, and provenance, to confidently guide both staff and guests.
- Financial Acumen: Experience with budgeting, stock control, cost management, and achieving revenue targets while maintaining quality.
- Compliance & Standards: Strong knowledge of health, safety, and food hygiene regulations, with the ability to enforce fine dining etiquette and international service standards.
- Communication & Language: Excellent communication skills, with the ability to converse confidently with international guests. (Additional language skills a plus.)
- Flexibility & Professionalism: Calm under pressure, well-presented, and adaptable to the demands of a dynamic fine dining environment.
If you’re a hospitality professional with a passion for fine dining and wine, we would love to hear from you. Join us in delivering unforgettable experiences in one of the most iconic wine regions in the world.
Desired Skills:
- fine-dining
- restauarnt manager
- Wine estate
