Lead Bartender

About Kochi :

Kochi is a Michelin-starred Korean tasting menu restaurant located in Hell’s Kitchen, led by Chef Sungchul Shim. Our team blends tradition and modern technique to deliver an elegant, soulful dining experience. We’re seeking a Lead Bartender to join our passionate front-of-house team — someone who embodies hospitality, precision, and creativity behind the bar.

Position Overview :

The Lead Bartender oversees all bar operations, ensuring beverages are prepared to Kochi’s high standards while maintaining a clean, organized, and efficient workspace. This role also plays a key part in guest engagement and teamwork with the service staff. The ideal candidate demonstrates leadership, attention to detail, and an eagerness to develop innovative cocktails aligned with the restaurant’s Korean-inspired identity.

Key Responsibilities :

Prepare and serve all beverages — including cocktails, mocktails, tea, and coffee — in a timely and consistent manner.

Maintain cleanliness and organization of the bar area at all times.

Run food and assist servers when there are no beverage orders.

Support servers with guest service (greeting, pouring water, clearing, marking tables, etc.).

Fold or replace napkins when guests leave or when soiled.

Participate in all opening and closing side work , including restocking, polishing glassware, and resetting stations.

Collaborate with the team to ensure the restaurant is fully ready for service after family meal.

Develop and update cocktail menus , integrating seasonal ingredients and Korean-inspired flavors.

Uphold industry standards for sanitation, safety, and beverage service.

Contribute to the overall guest experience through professionalism, warmth, and hospitality.

Teamwork & Compensation :

At Kochi, both bartenders and servers participate in a shared tip pool and support each other across service duties. Collaboration and teamwork are central to our culture — every team member contributes equally to maintaining our Michelin-level standards.

Qualifications :

Minimum 2 years bartending experience in fine dining or upscale cocktail settings.

Strong knowledge of spirits, wine, and Korean-inspired flavors preferred.

Experience in recipe development and cocktail menu creation.

Excellent communication and multitasking skills.

Positive attitude, adaptability, and commitment to teamwork.

NYC Food Handler’s Certification (preferred).

Compensation & Benefits :

$13 / hour + tips (average earnings competitive with fine dining industry standards)

Staff meal provided daily.

Opportunities for creative input and menu development.

Potential for advancement within our growing hospitality group.

• Health Insurance
• Commuter Benefits
• Dining Discounts at company-affiliated restaurants
• Physical Demands
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs, stand for extended periods, bend, and move with agility throughout service.

Kochi is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

To apply, please send your resume. We look forward to welcoming new talent to our growing team.