Sommelier Society of America

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Yannick Benjamin's Contento Restaurant Seeking Servers

Contento the first restaurant by Yannick Benjamin, recently named by The Infatuation and Eater as one of the best new places for dining in New York City is currently looking for servers who love the hospitality industry. As we extend our days and hours of operation we are seeking fun talented people who thrive in a team environment and focus on providing our guests with a night out - whether it’s for a catch-up with a friend or an impressive date night - that feels overwhelmingly of the moment. 

Reports to:
General Manager
FLSA Classification: Non-Exempt

Job Summary:
An integral member of the Contento team, the Server is responsible for ensuring that all guests who dine with us, have an engaging experience filled with hospitality, delicious food and drinks and leave raving, with no choice but to return. The Server is expected to constantly learn, thrive and grow through knowledge and skills. The Server is expected to support all areas of the service floor including private dining (PDR) event.

Core Tasks and Key Responsibilities
Time and Attendance:
• Arrive on time and “floor-ready” for all scheduled shifts. Arrive at work following dress code guidelines and standards
• Clock in and out for each scheduled shift and shift break. Exhibit accurate and effective use of time and attendance portals and procedures
• Abide by all Art Food and USHG Policies and guidelines

Service and Guest Experience:
• Maintain an understanding of the proper steps of service. Consistently execute them with efficiency and grace while maintaining a sense of urgency throughout service
• Anticipate guest needs and create strong guest relationships. Guest recognition is critical
• Ensure constant communication with staff members, management, and the kitchen at all times during service
• Demonstrate speed and accuracy when using the POS system during service
• Utilize soignee system effectively and assign headers for any VIP guests/Allergies/etc
• Practice and refine the use of Enlightened Salesmanship when interacting with guests
• Actively mobilize support team to fulfill all steps of service to focus on guest needs
• Attend all mandatory educational, informative and staff meetings

Constant Command of Menu Information
• Demonstrate expertise of current menus for all shifts
• Demonstrate knowledge of the preparation and possible allergens of menu items
• Command knowledge of the beverage list
• Maintain knowledge of changing menu items as well as wine and beverage selections by attending line up and utilizing alternative resources outside of the workplace, such as Square Space (marta.ushgnyc.com).
• Participate in regular quizzing on menu items, service and restaurant information

Sidework and Station Maintenance:
• Act as part of the team to maintain the high standards of cleanliness and appearance throughout all areas of the restaurant both before, during and after service
• Reliably complete all assigned sidework
• Demonstrate knowledge of Department of Health (DOH) standards

Other Qualifications
Relevant Knowledge, Skills, & Ability:
Excellent Communicator – the ability to understand, speak & follow written and verbal instruction in English
Comprehensive knowledge of savory and dessert menus, cheese, wines by the glass, cocktail, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages Attention to detail & well organized
Team-oriented
Initiative & follow through
Prioritization & multi-tasking
Actively helps to uphold a positive relationship with the kitchen
Excels in a team environment and is viewed as a team player by all stakeholders
Is responsible for all information shared at line-up, including food, beverage, service changes, and all daily specials
Adheres to the dress code, appearance, and grooming standards specified in the service manual
Follows all standards, procedures, and policies established by the restaurant and USHG
Prioritizes tasks while focusing on guest needs first
Maintains open communication with management
Exhibits excellence reflex at all times
Follows all DOH guidelines

Work Environment:
Ability to regularly reach with hands and arms, climb, balance, stoop, kneel or crawl
Regularly required to lift and/or move up to 15 lbs; frequently lift and/or move up to 50 lbs
Ability to stand or walk for up to 12 hours at a time
Ability to balance & carry multiple plates, glass racks and or/glasses
Language: English fluency and Spanish preferred

• Classic Food / Wine Service
• Classic Wine Service Knowledge
• Customer Service
• Experience in a Fine Dining Establishment
• Food | Beverage Pairing
• Food Preparation Knowledge
• Food Safety Knowledge
• POS Systems

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity and inclusion and belonging at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

Contact: Email Yannick Benjamin