Tasting Room Associate at Acme Ventures LLC – Santa Barbara, California

WHO WE ARE

Acme Hospitality owns and operates a collection of highly acclaimed and award-winning food & beverage concepts and boutique hotels throughout California. In addition to a collection of restaurants and hotels, we create hospitality experiences that inspire people, create a sense of camaraderie, and make people happy.

MISSION & CORE VALUES

Above all else, we are committed to providing our team members with a work environment and experience that we can be proud of. Our Core Values of Delivering Excellence, Embrace Originality, Act with Integrity and Celebrate Community are the essential ingredients for success.

POSITION SUMMARY

As the Tasting Room Associate, you are responsible for providing efficient and friendly service to customers. Their primary role is to take orders, process payments, and deliver food and beverages to customers in a timely manner.

ACME TEAM MEMBER QUALITIES:

• A strong and committed work ethic with ever-present enthusiasm.
• A passion for work and knowledge of food and beverages.
• Someone who can lead and takes pride in teaching others.
• Someone who is honest and has integrity.
• Ability to multitask under pressure with a smile.
• A true team player, proactive and always going above and beyond.
• An eye for detail, cleanliness and organization.
• Someone who is humble and always willing to learn and get better.
• Someone who has the ability to make appropriate decisions in adverse situations.
• Ability to question, bring ideas to the table, and desire to make changes to be the best we can be.

THE OVERALL ROLE OF THE TASTING ROOM MANAGER IS TO:

• Greet guests warmly and provide them with seating options and a wine list.
• Provide detailed explanations of the wines.
• Assist guests in selecting food and beverages by making knowledgeable recommendations based on their preferences and dietary restrictions.
• Take accurate food and drink orders, using a point-of-sale (POS) system, and communicate with kitchen and bar staff.
• Ensure that all special requests or modifications to orders are communicated correctly to the kitchen and accommodated as much as possible.
• Serve food and beverages promptly and accurately, ensuring proper presentation and adherence to quality standards.
• Monitor tables throughout the meal to anticipate and fulfill guests' needs, such as refilling drinks, clearing plates, and providing additional utensils or condiments.
• Prepare and serve specialty drinks or cocktails, if required by the establishment.
• Answer guest inquiries about food, beverages, and restaurant services in a courteous and knowledgeable manner.
• Upsell menu items, such as appetizers, desserts, or premium beverages, to enhance the dining experience and increase revenue.
• Handle guest complaints or concerns promptly and professionally, escalating to a supervisor or manager if necessary.
• Process guest payments accurately, including handling cash, credit card transactions, and using POS systems.
• Collaborate effectively with kitchen and bar staff to ensure smooth coordination between the front and back of the house.
• Maintain a clean and organized dining area, including setting tables, folding napkins, and arranging table settings.
• Follow all health and safety regulations and adhere to proper food handling and sanitation practices.

REQUIRED WORK EXPERIENCE:

• 2 years previous experience as a Server or Tasting Room Associate in a restaurant or tasting room is typically required.
• Extensive knowledge of food and beverage menus, including wine pairing and cocktail recipes.
• Strong customer service skills, with the ability to provide personalized and attentive service.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact with guests and team members effectively.
• Professional and polished appearance, with a focus on attention to detail.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment while maintaining composure.
• Familiarity with POS systems and basic math skills for accurate order taking and payment processing.
• Exceptional organization and multitasking abilities.
• Flexibility to work in shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Understanding fine dining etiquette and service standards.
• Ability to work well in a team and collaborate with colleagues.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Knowledge of food safety and sanitation regulations.
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods and lift trays or plates when necessary.
• Excellent memory retention for accurately taking and delivering orders.
• Understanding responsible alcohol service practices and compliance with legal drinking age verification.
• RBS certification for responsible alcohol service is required.
• Current Food Handler Certification

REPORTING STRUCTURE:

• Tasting Room Associate reports to the General Manager

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:

• Tasting Room Associates may be asked to travel periodically.

JOB STATUS:

• Non-Exempt

IMPORTANT NOTICE:

This job description is not an exclusive or exhaustive list of all job functions that an Acme Hospitality Team Member in this position may be asked to perform from time to time. Based on business needs or Guest service objectives, you may also be asked to perform other duties or tasks in addition to those listed above and will be required to have completed required training associated with the other duties or tasks.