Location: Stellenbosch, Western Cape
Position Type: Full-Time
Experience Level: Mid-to-Senior (3+ years in a luxury or high-volume environment)
Job Summary
We are seeking a passionate, dynamic, and experienced Head Bartender to lead our beverage program and bar team. Located in the heart of the historic Stellenbosch winelands, our venue prides itself on delivering world-class hospitality to both local regulars and international tourists.
As the Head Bartender, you will not only craft exceptional drinks but also act as the creative mind behind our cocktail menus, the mentor to our bar team, and a brand ambassador for our establishment. The ideal candidate will blend expert mixology skills with a strong knowledge of South African wine, sharp stock-management acumen, and unmatched leadership energy.
Key Responsibilities
1. Team Leadership & Training
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Lead, mentor, and schedule a dedicated team of bartenders and baristas.
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Conduct regular training sessions on pouring techniques, classic and signature mixology, upselling, and guest engagement.
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Maintain an energetic, positive, and collaborative workplace culture behind the wood.
2. Beverage Curation & Innovation
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Design and evolve a cutting-edge beverage menu featuring signature cocktails, zero-proof mocktails, and seasonal infusions.
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Incorporate local South African botanicals, fynbos, and premium regional spirits.
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Work collaboratively with our floor management team to curate a bar offering that complements local Stellenbosch wine profiles.
3. Bar Operations & Stock Control
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Oversee daily opening and closing procedures, ensuring flawless organization and cleanliness (HACCP compliant).
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Manage inventory, conduct precise weekly/monthly stock takes, and minimize variance.
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Establish strong relationships with beverage suppliers and brand ambassadors to manage orders and secure menu placements.
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Monitor beverage cost percentages to ensure profitability targets are met.
4. Guest Experience
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Deliver premium, engaging, and fast-paced five-star customer service.
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Handle guest inquiries and resolve complaints with poise and professionalism.
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Engage visitors by sharing stories about the origins, flavor profiles, and curation of our drinks.
Requirements & Qualifications
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Experience: Minimum 2–5 years of bartending experience, with at least 1–2 years in a Head Bartender or supervisory capacity.
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Skills: Master-level knowledge of spirits, classic cocktail recipes, modern mixology techniques, and barista skills.
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Wine Knowledge: A solid foundation in South African wine (WSET or Cape Wine Academy qualification is a major advantage given our Stellenbosch location).
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Systems: Proficiency with restaurant POS systems (e.g., GAAP, Micros, Pilot) and stock management software.
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Availability: Willingness to work hospitality hours, including late nights, weekends, and public holidays.
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Legal: Valid South African ID or a valid, legal SA work permit.
What We Offer
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A competitive market-related salary (negotiable based on experience).
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A vibrant, scenic, and professional working environment.
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tips.
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Opportunities for career growth and direct collaboration with leading beverage brands and winemakers.
How to Apply
If you are ready to make your mark on the Stellenbosch hospitality scene, please send your CV, a brief motivation letter, and (optional but highly encouraged) photos or a portfolio of your signature creations to: fandb@dewarenmarkt.com with the subject line "Application: Head Bartender".