Sommelier

Prato - Bethesda

7278 Woodmont Ave, Bethesda, MD 20814

Full Time

• Salary ($70k - $85k)

Expires:

Oct 26, 2026 Be an early applicant

Required Years of Experience 3 years Job Details Overview We are excited to welcome a dynamic and passionate Sommelier Beverage Manager to lead the beverage program at our upcoming restaurant opening. This pivotal role combines expert wine knowledge, exceptional customer service, and team leadership to create an unforgettable dining experience. As the face of our wine and beverage service, you will curate an impressive wine list, train staff on wine service and upselling techniques, and ensure every guest enjoys personalized recommendations. Your enthusiasm for fine wines, food pairing, and hospitality will drive sales and elevate our reputation as a premier destination for food and beverage excellence. Duties Develop and curate an extensive, well-balanced wine list aligned with the restaurant's concept, including menu planning and sourcing high-quality wines.

Lead the training of restaurant staff on wine knowledge, proper serving techniques, and upselling strategies to enhance guest satisfaction and increase sales.

Provide expert wine service to guests, including pouring, presentation, and recommendations tailored to individual preferences.

Manage daily beverage operations using POS systems TOAST and R365 to ensure accurate order processing, cash handling, and inventory control.

Collaborate with culinary teams to create food and beverage pairings that complement menu offerings and enhance dining experiences.

Oversee beverage inventory management, ordering, receiving, and storage to minimize waste and optimize profitability.

Foster a welcoming environment by delivering exceptional customer service, engaging with guests about wine selections, and promoting a memorable dining atmosphere.

Lead team meetings, monitor performance standards, and motivate staff to uphold high service quality in a fast-paced setting. Qualifications Proven experience as a Sommelier or Beverage Manager in fine dining or upscale restaurant environments.

Extensive wine knowledge across various regions, varietals, tasting profiles, and food pairings.

Strong familiarity with POS systems such as Aloha POS or Micros POS for order entry and cash handling.

Excellent customer service skills with an ability to sell wine confidently while providing personalized recommendations.

Leadership experience in team management within the food and beverage industry.

Knowledge of food safety standards, proper serving techniques, and alcohol regulations.

Culinary experience or background in food service enhances ability to collaborate effectively with kitchen teams.

Ability to thrive in a high-energy environment while maintaining attention to detail and professionalism. About Us Park Lights Hospitality is expanding after calling Winter Park, Florida home for two decades. It started with Luma on Park, the restaurant that redefined dining on Park Avenue, and in 2011 we opened Prato just down the street—a wood-fired, modern-Italian kitchen built around simple ingredients, house-made pastas, and a room that hums seven nights a week. Next came Luke's opening in 2017. Now we're taking the show on the road. This fall, Prato opens its first location outside Florida at Bethesda Row in downtown Bethesda, Maryland, with Nashville following in early 2027 and more major markets in the works. Each new Prato brings the signature Winter Park feel—exposed brick, warm wood, and that perfectly dialed-in lighting—to a brand-new neighborhood, along with the energy and hospitality that made the original a legend. This is the start of a national brand, and we're building the team that will carry it there. If you love great food, big rooms, and the chance to grow with a company that's just getting started, we'd love to meet you. Join us as we open the doors to an exciting new culinary destination! Bring your passion for wine, your leadership skills, and your dedication to delivering outstanding hospitality—help us craft memorable experiences that keep guests coming back for more!

Compensation Details Compensation:

Salary ($70,000.00 - $85,000.00)

Benefits & Perks:

Health Insurance, Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance, Paid Time Off, Potential Bonuses, Dining Discounts Required Skills Strong Communication Skills Ability to Work Collaboratively With a Team Sales Skills Problem Solving Skills Time Management Skills Adaptability in a Fast Paced Environment Customer Engagement Skills Attention to Guest Preferences