A bar manager runs the bar program, including staff, inventory, cocktail menu, and profitability. The role sits between the general manager and the bartenders and is accountable for beverage cost and bar service standards. Here is what the job looks like across a shift, in the order it happens.
Opening duties
- Check the bar for cleanliness, stock, and equipment readiness
- Review reservations, events, and expected bar volume
- Confirm bartender schedule and bar setup tasks
- Check beer lines, kegs, and key spirit levels
- Hold a quick meeting on specials, new cocktails, and goals
During service
- Support the bar team by working the rail or running the service well
- Monitor pour accuracy and drink quality
- Check IDs and watch for intoxication in guests
- Handle bar guest complaints and recovery
- Communicate stock issues and 86'd items to the floor
- Keep service flowing between the bar and servers
- Coach bartenders in the moment
Closing duties
- Review bar sales, comps, and voids
- Verify cash and tab reconciliation
- Check closing breakdown and cleaning tasks
- Log low stock and equipment problems
- Secure the liquor storage and lock the bar
Weekly duties
- Complete the liquor, beer, and wine inventory and calculate pour cost
- Place orders with distributors
- Build the bar schedule and plan staffing for events
- Meet with the general manager on bar performance
Writing a posting? The bar manager job description turns these duties into a ready-to-paste template. For shift planning, try the free restaurant schedule template.