Cafe Malabar is looking for Bartenders to join our team.
We are a chef-led restaurant inspired by the food, culture, and hospitality traditions of Kerala’s Malabar Coast in South India. The heart of our restaurant is sharing those traditions through food, beverage, storytelling, and the way we care for people.
Led by Chefs Kiran and Karma, recognized as Victoria’s 2025 Chefs of the Year, Cafe Malabar was also named Air Canada’s 5th Best New Restaurant in Canada in 2024. As we continue to grow, we are looking for people who genuinely connect with what we are building.
Our bar program is rooted in thoughtful hospitality, strong fundamentals, creativity, and collaboration with the kitchen. We are looking for bartenders who care equally about craft, guest experience, and being part of a strong service team.
This role is hands-on and guest-focused. Some nights may involve bartending, helping run drinks, supporting service flow, setting tables, or stepping in wherever needed to help the restaurant succeed.
What the Role Includes:
- Preparing cocktails, wine, beer, and non alcoholic beverages with consistency and attention to detail
- Guiding guests through beverage selections and pairings
- Supporting a warm, professional, and thoughtful guest experience
- Maintaining cleanliness, organization, and efficiency behind the bar
- Working collaboratively with the kitchen and front of house team
- Contributing ideas and creativity to seasonal beverage features
What We’re Looking For:
- Previous bartending experience in a full-service restaurant
- Strong cocktail fundamentals and beverage knowledge
- Comfort discussing wine, cocktails, and pairings with guests
- Calm and professional presence during busy service
- Strong communication and teamwork skills
- Someone who genuinely enjoys hospitality and taking care of people
- Must be 19+ with a valid Serving It Right certification
Compensation
- $18.50–$20.00 per hour + participation in tip pool
- Compensation based on experience
Schedule
- Afternoons and evenings
- Wednesday through Sunday
- Weekend availability required
What We Offer
- Staff meals
- A supportive and respectful work environment
- Opportunity to grow within an evolving restaurant
- A creative and collaborative service environment
We are much more interested in finding the right people than simply filling positions.
If this role speaks to you, please email us directly at [email protected] with:
- Your resume
- A short introduction about yourself
- Why Cafe Malabar interests you specifically
- What hospitality means to you
We would genuinely love to hear from people who connect with what we are building.
Pay: From $18.25 per hour
Benefits:
- Discounted or free food
- Flexible schedule
Experience:
- Bartending: 1 year (required)
Location:
- Victoria, BC V8W 1S2 (required)
Work Location: In person
