Wine Director

2 years

Musaafer NYC, the New York outpost of the award-winning concept behind Houstons Michelin-starred culinary destination, is seeking a Wine Director to lead our wine program and support the opening of our highly anticipated new location.

As our Wine Director, youll be entrusted with curating and evolving a world-class wine program that reflects our culinary vision, supports the guest experience, and elevates our teams knowledge and service. Youll work closely with the General Manager and Chef to build a program that is ambitious, balanced, and expressive a true extension of our identity.

We are seeking a passionate, business-minded, and guest-driven leader to help define what hospitality and excellence look like. This is a rare opportunity to shape and execute a best-in-class wine program while also serving as a mentor and culture-setter.

This is more than a beverage role its a leadership position. Youll play a key part in our daily operations, support floor service, develop our teams wine literacy, and uphold the high standards that define us.

What You'll Do

As a Wine Director, not only will you lead the wine program, but youll also serve as a leader on the dining room floor, ensuring smooth service, strong team performance, and memorable guest experiences every night. Youll work closely with the General Manager and department heads to oversee daily operations, coach the FOH team, and uphold the systems and standards that support consistency, grace, and professionalism.

Your key responsibilities will include:

• Develop and maintain a world-class, award-worthy wine program that reflects the restaurants identity and supports the culinary vision.
• Drive beverage sales through thoughtful pairings, strategic pricing, and active guest engagement, using wine as a tool for both experience and revenue.
• Lead daily wine operations, including inventory management, purchasing, cost controls, and cellar organization. Maintain a clean, organized, and accessible cellar.
• Oversee wine service standards, including proper storage, glassware, and temperature control.
• Train and educate the team, from introductory knowledge to advanced wine theory and service. Lead pre-service meetings, tastings, and ongoing staff development.
• Deliver exceptional table-side wine service, including decanting, pairing recommendations, and storytelling that enhances the guests dining experience.
• Collaborate with the GM and Executive Chef to craft pairings and deliver a seamless guest experience.
• Foster relationships with distributors, importers, and producers, and stay ahead of market trends, allocations, and opportunities.
• Assist in managing the FOH team, including scheduling, coaching, and upholding service standards.
• Contribute to opening operations, from glassware selection and list development to training materials and systems implementation.
• Drive programming and events, such as winemaker dinners and education series

Who You Are

• A dynamic wine professional with deep knowledge and genuine curiosity you bring a world-class palate and a grounded presence
• 2+ years of experience managing a high-level wine program, preferably in a Michelin-rated or fine dining setting
• A natural mentor and team leader who values collaboration, humility, and professionalism
• Proven ability to lead by example with a collaborative spirit and inspire a team through empathy, presence, and professionalism
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills; youre as comfortable leading pre-shift as you are guiding a guest through their experience
• Keen financial acumen with a track record of managing budgets, meeting targets, and improving performance
• Deep understanding of service steps, pacing, etiquette, hospitality philosophy, and an unwavering commitment to guest service
• Highly organized, with a proven ability to lead a team under pressure, stay composed during service, and solve problems with tact
• Skilled in POS systems, reservation platforms, operational software, inventory management, and labor scheduling tools
• Familiar with NYC beverage laws, compliance, and the logistics of building a list from the ground up
• Able to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed
• Able to lift 40+ lbs and be on your feet for extended periods

Preferred But Not Required

• CMS level 2 or better, WSET level 3 or better, or similar certification
• Familiarity with POS, inventory, and cellar management systems
• Experience opening a restaurant or leading a team through a major launch
• Multilingual (especially French, Italian, Spanish, Hindi, or Bengali)
• Knowledge of NYC wine laws and distributor landscape

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonus opportunities
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision benefits
• Paid time off and holiday pay
• Pre-opening training and onboarding with a seasoned team
• Opportunities for continued growth within a Michelin-recognized restaurant group
• A values-driven, respectful, and guest-focused team culture
• Generous dining discounts across our concepts

Join us in shaping a new chapter in New Yorks dining scene. Were not just opening a restaurant were building a team, a culture, and an experience. If youre a wine leader with heart, hustle, and vision, we want to hear from you.

This is a rare opportunity to build something meaningful from day one, with the support of a seasoned team and the excitement of a new market. If youre a wine professional looking to lead with integrity, inspire with knowledge, and grow alongside a top-tier restaurant, wed love to meet you.

Apply with your resume and a brief cover letter. Let us know why youre the right fit and how you envision the future of wine in New York.

Compensation: Salary ($90,000.00 - $110,000.00)

Benefits & Perks: Health Insurance, Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance, Paid Time Off, Potential Bonuses, Dining Discounts

Leadership

Mentorship

Collaboration

Professionalism

Organizational Skills

Ability to Work Under Pressure

Attention to Detail

Strategic Thinking

Market Awareness

Training and Development

Customer Engagement

Inventory Management

Team Training

Wine Service

Customer Service

Excellent Communication Skills

Ordering, Budgets, Costing

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