Company description

Haven Wine & Cheese, nestled in Menlo Park’s Willows neighborhood, is a proudly female- and POC-owned space created by two friends who live just around the corner. It’s a cozy neighborhood retreat where everyone is welcome, and community is at the heart of everything we do.

At Haven, we curate thoughtful wine and cheese experiences, complemented by artisanal goods like tinned fish and specialty crackers. Enjoy our creative culinary offerings, join our wine memberships curated by a master sommelier, shop in-store for unique bottles, or attend engaging events like charcuterie board classes and winemaker talks. Our menu features locally sourced, sustainable ingredients—think small plates, sandwiches, soups, artisanal breads, and charcuterie boards—served for lunch, brunch, and dinner. And don’t miss our beautiful outdoor patio—the perfect neighborhood haven to unwind and enjoy it all.

Job description

About Us:
Haven Wine & Cheese is a vibrant, community-driven wine & cheese shop, wine bar and kitchen that offers a cozy, inviting atmosphere where guests can enjoy carefully curated wines, delicious bites, and exceptional service. We’re looking for experienced, energetic, and knowledgeable Bartenders/Servers and Hosts who are passionate about hospitality and excited to contribute to an elevated guest experience. If you have a strong background in service and a love for wine, you might be the perfect fit for our team.

Roles:

As a Bartender/Server at Haven, you'll be an integral part of the guest experience, ensuring that every customer enjoys their time at our wine bar. You’ll be responsible for guiding guests through our menu, making wine recommendations, and delivering exceptional service in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. The ideal candidate will have experience in hospitality, a strong understanding of the wine industry, and the ability to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere for all of our guests.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide outstanding customer service by anticipating guests' needs and delivering a memorable experience.
• Take food and beverage orders, including offering wine pairings and recommendations based on guests’ preferences. 1-2 years of experience as a server, preferably in a wine bar, restaurant, or similar setting.
• Be knowledgeable about our wine offerings, including the ability to discuss wine characteristics, regions, and pairings. (WSET or similar certification is a plus).
• Work with the team to ensure a smooth flow of service during busy periods.
• Process payments and handle transactions accurately and efficiently, both for your tables and possible retail sales. We are a small business and our servers will need to fill in the gaps when needed.

As a Host, you'll be the heartbeat of our operation. You’ll greet and seat guests, ring up retail items, refill water glasses, help bus tables, and assist with any other tasks that keep the day flowing. This role is perfect for someone eager to learn the ins and outs of the hospitality industry while helping create a relaxed, vibrant atmosphere at Haven.

Key Responsibilities:

• Greet guests with a warm, friendly smile and create a welcoming atmosphere from the moment they walk in.
• Manage guest seating and flow, ensuring a smooth, efficient experience.
• Ring up retail purchases
• Refill water glasses, bus tables, and help keep the space clean and inviting.
• Work with the team to make sure all areas are running seamlessly.
• Be proactive and attentive, offering exceptional customer service at every opportunity

For Both Roles:

• Availability to work shifts/events in the evenings, on weekends, and holidays as needed.
• Food Handlers and RBS certification needed for both roles.
• Positive, high-energy, and passionate about providing excellent service.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
• Eager to learn and grow in the hospitality business, especially with wine and food.
• A team player who loves contributing to a great guest experience and staying busy.
• Ability to stay upbeat and proactive, ensuring a fun and welcoming atmosphere.
• Help lift and carry trays of food and beverages, with the ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Be on your feet for extended periods, walk, bend, stretch, reach, and stoop as needed to move wine boxes, retail merchandise, and other items.
• Able to work indoors & outdoors, including in the sun on our back patio.

Why Haven?

• A dynamic and supportive team environment that fosters growth and development.
• Gain hands-on experience in the hospitality industry with plenty of room to learn and grow.
• Opportunities to deepen your knowledge of wine and the hospitality industry.
• A chance to be part of a community-focused, neighborhood destination that values great food, wine, and service.
• Competitive pay with the potential for tips and performance-based incentives, including wine education.
• A culture that encourages learning, creativity, and contributing to a great guest experience.

Compensation

this position is: hourly, varies DOE, $18.00 - $22.00

Application instructions

Deadline

no deadline