What are the responsibilities and job description for the Bar Manager position at Pono Pacific Kitchen?
Join the team at Pono Pacific Kitchen — soon to be Grover Beach’s newest craft distillery destination.
Pono Pacific Kitchen is a higher-end, full-service restaurant in Grover Beach known for Pacific Rim-inspired signature dishes, fresh seafood, and locally sourced ingredients. As we grow into a full-fledged craft distillery, we’re searching for a visionary Mixologist / Bar Manager to lead and shape our elevated bar program from the ground up.
This role is ideal for someone passionate about spirits, cocktail artistry, and creating memorable hospitality experiences in a fine dining environment.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Develop and lead a creative, seasonal craft cocktail program using house-distilled spirits and locally sourced ingredients.
- Conceptualize and execute unique, signature cocktails that go beyond the classics — drinks that tell a story, reflect our Pacific influence, and elevate the guest experience.
- Build the bar program from scratch: from inventory systems and bar setup to sourcing ingredients and barware.
- Oversee daily bar operations while also bartending and serving guests at the bar throughout dinner service.
- Handle all ordering and inventory for spirits, beer, wine, mixers, and bar supplies with cost-efficiency and precision.
- Collaborate with the culinary team on cocktail pairings and menu synergy.
- Bartend and serve guests directly at the bar, providing elevated hospitality and maintaining a polished, professional presence at all times.
- Ensure all RBS, food safety, and cleanliness standards are upheld.
- Assist in developing bar-related components for special events, private parties, and future distillery tastings.
- Serve as the face and leader of the bar program as it grows — with the opportunity to help hire and train additional bartenders in the future.
IDEAL QUALIFICATIONS:
- 2 years of bartending experience in a craft cocktail or fine dining setting.
- A true passion for original mixology — confident in designing cocktails from scratch, infusing house-made ingredients, and showcasing creativity in both flavor and presentation.
- Wine knowledge and interest in spirits — especially rum, vodka, and gin — is a plus.
- Must hold or be willing to obtain current Food Handlers, RBS, and Sexual Harassment Certifications.
- Strong leadership qualities with a hands-on, startup mindset and high standards of excellence.
- Comfortable working solo behind the bar while maintaining composure, efficiency, and exceptional hospitality.
- Enthusiastic about building something new and being an integral part of a restaurant-distillery hybrid concept.
SCHEDULE & AVAILABILITY:
- Dinner service only. Evening, weekend, and holiday availability is required.
- We are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, so you'll have two consistent days off each week.
- We are closed on major holidays including the Easter, 4th of July, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day & Super Bowl Sunday.
TO APPLY:
Email your resume with a short cover letter stating your availability and a few work references. Tell us what you’ll bring to the team and how you’d shape the cocktail program at Pono — or stop by in person at: 228 W. Grand Ave, Grover Beach, CA
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: $18.50 - $20.50 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Employee discount
- Flexible schedule
Shift:
- Evening shift
Work Location: In person
Salary : $19 - $21