Bartender/Manager – Bodega Tapas Bar – Ellerslie
Lead from Behind the Bar. Manage the Restaurant. Set the Standard.
Bodega Tapas Bar is more than just a restaurant — it’s a destination. Known for bold Portuguese & Spanish flavours, a standout wine and cocktail program, and an electric atmosphere, our Ellerslie location delivers a relaxed neighbourhood oasis where exceptional food, genuine hospitality, and a welcoming atmosphere keep guests coming back.
We’re not just pouring drinks — we’re creating memorable experiences behind the bar and throughout the restaurant.
If that excites you, keep reading.
THE OPPORTUNITY
We’re seeking a passionate, hands-on Bartender/Manager to help lead our Ellerslie location.
This is an ideal role for an experienced bartender who wants to take the next step into restaurant leadership. You’ll spend a significant part of your time behind the bar, while also taking responsibility for the overall operation of the restaurant during your shifts.
You’ll be expected to lead by example, deliver exceptional service, support your team, and ensure the restaurant runs smoothly from open to close.
WHAT YOU’LL OWN
Bartending & Guest Experience
- Work hands-on behind the bar, delivering fast, friendly, and knowledgeable service
- Prepare cocktails, wine, beer, and other beverages to established recipes and quality standards
- Provide knowledgeable recommendations and create genuine connections with guests
- Maintain an organized, clean, and fully stocked bar throughout service
- Ensure responsible alcohol service and compliance with all applicable regulations
- Support the floor team when required to ensure a seamless guest experience
- Handle guest feedback and concerns professionally and effectively
Restaurant Management & Shift Leadership
- Take responsibility for the overall operation of the restaurant during assigned shifts
- Act as the senior leader on the floor, ensuring service runs smoothly and efficiently
- Direct and support servers, bartenders, hosts, and support staff during service
- Conduct pre-shift meetings and communicate daily priorities, features, and operational updates
- Monitor service standards, table turns, guest satisfaction, and overall restaurant flow
- Step in wherever needed to support the team and maintain service standards
- Open and/or close the restaurant, including completing required closing procedures and cash-out responsibilities
- Address operational issues quickly and make sound decisions under pressure
Team Leadership & Development
- Lead by example and set the standard for hospitality, professionalism, and teamwork
- Train and coach team members on service, beverage knowledge, and restaurant standards
- Help identify performance issues and work with management to address them
- Foster a positive, accountable, and energetic team culture
- Support scheduling and staffing decisions to ensure appropriate coverage
- Help develop team members and identify future leadership potential
Inventory, Cost Control & Operations
- Assist with ordering, receiving, and maintaining inventory for the bar and restaurant
- Monitor beverage inventory, waste, portion control, and product quality
- Help maintain beverage and labour costs within established targets
- Complete daily operational and cash-handling procedures accurately
- Monitor cleanliness, food safety, liquor compliance, and workplace safety standards
- Communicate operational needs and issues to ownership and senior leadership
- Assist with implementing promotions, features, and beverage initiatives
WHO YOU ARE
- 3–5+ years of bartending experience, preferably in a high-volume, full-service restaurant
- Previous supervisory or restaurant management experience is an asset
- A confident bartender with strong cocktail, wine, and beverage knowledge
- A natural leader who is comfortable taking charge when needed
- Someone who enjoys being hands-on and working alongside their team
- Strong communication and problem-solving skills
- Calm, organized, and decisive under pressure
- Financially aware, with an understanding of labour, beverage costs, waste, and profitability
- Passionate about hospitality and creating memorable guest experiences
- Experience with Spanish wines, Portuguese or Spanish cuisine, or tapas is an asset
- Legally eligible to work in Canada
WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU?
- $40,000 – $45,000 base salary plus tips, based on experience
- Performance-based bonus program
- A hands-on leadership role with significant responsibility and opportunity for growth
- The opportunity to continue bartending while developing your management skills
- A supportive leadership team invested in your success
- A well-established concept with a loyal following and room for creativity
APPLY NOW
Send your resume and a brief cover letter outlining why you’re a great fit to [email protected]
We’re hiring immediately.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.
We sincerely appreciate all applications and the time taken to apply.
Bodega Tapas Bar thanks all applicants for their interest.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $40,000.00-$45,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person
