About the role
Bar Manager
Restaurant: Suzu — Opening Early 2026 Position Type: Exempt/Full-Time Location: Cincinnati, Ohio
About SUZU Hospitality
SUZU is our vision of modern Japanese hospitality and cuisine, embodying the harmony between innovation and timeless tradition. Located in Madisonville, Cincinnati, SUZU is inspired by the craftsmanship, flavors, and modern dining culture of Japan.
As part of a growing hospitality group with restaurants across the United States, we are committed to delivering exceptional food, authentic hospitality, and a guest experience that is seamless, thoughtful, and inviting.
Whether in the front of house or back of house, every team member plays an essential role in creating an environment built on professionalism, respect, teamwork, and continuous growth.
SUZU Hospitality is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and we are proud to foster an inclusive workplace where all individuals have the opportunity to thrive.
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Position Summary
The Bar Manager oversees all bar operations, beverage programs, and bar team management. This role is responsible for creating innovative cocktails, developing a strong sake and whisky program, maintaining impeccable service standards, and ensuring smooth execution during service. The ideal candidate is creative, organized, knowledgeable, and experienced in fine-dining or high-end beverage environments.
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Key Responsibilities
Beverage Program Development
* Develop and maintain Suzu’s cocktail program, focusing on Japanese-inspired techniques and ingredients * Curate selections of Japanese whisky, sake, shochu, wine, and specialty beverages * Collaborate with the Executive Chef to create thoughtful food pairings * Continuously explore new concepts, seasonal cocktails, and beverage trends
Bar Operations Management
* Oversee daily bar operations, including prep, station setup, and service execution * Ensure consistency, quality, and presentation of all beverages * Maintain inventory, track product usage, and manage ordering with vendors * Control beverage costs while preserving quality and creativity
Team Leadership & Training
* Hire, train, and mentor bartenders and barbacks * Conduct ongoing training on sake, Japanese whisky, mixology, and beverage service standards * Create a positive, professional, and disciplined working environment * Lead by example with impeccable bartending technique and hospitality
Guest Experience
* Provide refined, attentive, and knowledgeable interaction with guests * Offer recommendations and guide guests through unique beverage selections * Respond to guest feedback and concerns with professionalism and warmth * Help elevate Suzu’s overall hospitality experience through beverage excellence
Administrative & Compliance Responsibilities
* Maintain accurate records of inventory, ordering, waste, and usage * Ensure compliance with all alcohol service laws and safety regulations * Write and update bar SOPs, recipes, and service binders * Participate in pre-shift meetings, menu development discussions, and leadership planning
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Qualifications
* 3–5+ years of bartending experience in upscale environments * 1–2+ years of bar management or lead bartender experience * Strong knowledge of Japanese spirits, sake, mixology, and bar techniques * Strong leadership and communication abilities * TIPS, TAM, TABC or ServSafe certificate, required * Creative approach to drink development with disciplined execution * Ability to multitask in a high-paced, high-standards service environment * Professional appearance and polished hospitality presence
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What Suzu Offers
* Competitive salary * Extensive training in Japanese beverages and advanced mixology * Opportunity to build and shape the bar identity of a new concept * Professional, respectful, and growth-oriented work culture * Staff meals and continued education opportunities