Director of Food & Beverage - Newark, DE

Director of Food & Beverage  

Lefty’s Alley & Eats is unique destination in Delaware, bringing people together through interactive entertainment and unexpectedly high-quality food and beverages. We will be opening our new location at the Grove in Newark, DE in June 2026. We are currently in search of an Director of Food & Beverage to oversee all F&B operations within our 55,000 square foot venue. This position will begin approximately April 13, 2026 

Summary: The Director of Food & Beverage is responsible for overseeing all food and beverage operations across the restaurant, entertainment, and special event venues at Lefty’s Alley & Eats. This role directly supervises the Chef, Front of House Manager, and all food and beverage team members. The Director will lead the planning, execution, and management of dining services, nightlife, live entertainment, and ticketed events such as wine dinners, fundraisers, and private functions. This position requires a hands-on leader with strong management, operational, and marketing skills—dedicated to delivering exceptional guest experiences, maximizing profitability, and fostering a culture of hospitality and teamwork. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: 

Leadership & Training 

• Collaborate with the Front of House Manager to implement comprehensive training and development programs for new and existing staff. 
• Motivate and mentor team members to ensure consistent adherence to service and performance standards. 

Operations Management 

• Oversee daily food and beverage operations, ensuring compliance with all safety, sanitation, and maintenance standards. 
• Maintain and enforce standard operating procedures for cost and revenue control. 
• Ensure all operations comply with federal, state, and local laws related to labor, alcohol, and food safety. 

Financial Management 

• Develop and manage departmental budgets, monitoring financial performance and controlling expenses. 
• Oversee purchasing, receiving, and inventory management to ensure quality, cost-effectiveness, and accountability. 
• Approve invoices, verify payroll, and reconcile point-of-sale and revenue reports. 

Menu & Event Development 

• Partner with the Executive Chef to review and approve menus for the restaurant, catering, and special events. 
• Coordinate and execute high-quality food and beverage experiences for live performances, VIP functions, and ticketed events. 
• Work with the sales and marketing team to design and promote special events and dining experiences that drive guest engagement. 

Guest Relations & Service Excellence 

• Maintain a visible presence during service periods, ensuring guest satisfaction and addressing any issues promptly. 
• Analyze guest feedback and business data to continuously improve operations and enhance the overall experience. 

Facility & Staff Oversight 

• Ensure the cleanliness, appearance, and functionality of all food and beverage areas and equipment. 
• Enforce company dress code and grooming standards for all staff. 
• Collaborate with the General Manager on remodeling, refurbishment, and design improvements related to food and beverage operations. 

Qualifications & Skills 

• Proven experience in food and beverage management, preferably in a multi-faceted restaurant or entertainment venue. 
• Strong leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills. 
• Excellent financial and analytical abilities with attention to operational details. 
• Knowledge of marketing and event promotion, including social media engagement. 
• Ability to manage catered events from planning through execution. 
• Exceptional guest service focus and a genuine passion for hospitality. 

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Equal Employment Opportunity 

Lefty’s Alley & Eats is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all individuals regardless of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, disability, pregnancy, sexual orientation, or any other protected classification. Employment decisions are made based on qualifications, merit, and business needs in compliance with all applicants.