Culinary Assistant Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Assistant General Manager

Concept/Property: minibar|barmini by José Andrés
Reports To: General Manager
Department: Operations
Employment Type: Salaried, Exempt

About minibar by José Andrés

minibar by José Andrés is an intimate, Michelin-starred dining experience that pushes the boundaries of culinary artistry and hospitality. With a limited number of guests per seating, minibar delivers an immersive tasting menu where technique, storytelling, and impeccable service converge.

Led by Chef José Andrés and the José Andrés Group, minibar is recognized globally for its innovation, creativity, and relentless pursuit of excellence. Every detail—from the choreography of service to the presentation of each course—is designed to create a memorable and transformative dining experience.

José Andrés Group (JAG) is a hospitality company known for extraordinary culinary experiences, industry-leading innovation, and a mission-driven culture rooted in generosity, excellence, and the belief that food can change the world.

Position Summary

The Assistant General Manager (AGM) plays a critical leadership role in maintaining the exceptional standards of a Michelin-starred dining experience. Working closely with the General Manager and culinary leadership, the AGM helps orchestrate service with precision, ensuring every guest receives an unforgettable and highly personalized experience.

In this intimate, chef-driven environment, the AGM is both a service leader and hospitality ambassador—mentoring the front-of-house team, maintaining operational excellence, and upholding the meticulous standards that define minibar. This role requires a deep understanding of fine dining service, tasting menu pacing, luxury hospitality, and team leadership.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Excellence

• Lead and oversee daily dining room operations, ensuring flawless execution of multi-course tasting menu service.
• Maintain the highest standards of Michelin-level hospitality, attention to detail, and service choreography.
• Coordinate closely with the culinary and beverage teams to ensure seamless timing and communication during service.
• Oversee reservations, guest pacing, table management, and service flow in an intimate dining environment.
• Ensure strict adherence to service protocols, SOPs, and operational standards.

Guest Experience & Hospitality Leadership

• Deliver highly personalized guest engagement through thoughtful table touches and storytelling around the culinary experience.
• Anticipate guest needs and curate memorable moments throughout the dining journey.
• Lead guest recovery with discretion, empathy, and professionalism.
• Monitor guest feedback and maintain minibar’s reputation for exceptional service.

Team Leadership & Development

• Train, mentor, and develop a highly skilled front-of-house team aligned with Michelin-level service expectations.
• Lead daily pre-service briefings focusing on menu knowledge, service choreography, and guest experience priorities.
• Foster a culture of excellence, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Support recruitment, onboarding, and development of top hospitality talent.

Financial & Operational Stewardship

• Partner with the General Manager to monitor labor performance, revenue pacing, and operational efficiency.
• Support cost controls and inventory processes in partnership with culinary and beverage teams.
• Assist in forecasting, scheduling, and maintaining strong financial discipline.

Brand & Experience Stewardship

• Act as a guardian of minibar’s brand, service philosophy, and guest standards.
• Contribute to the evolution of service rituals, training programs, and operational improvements.
• Support special events, media visits, VIP experiences, and collaborations.

Working Conditions

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods during service.
• Lift or move up to 30 lbs occasionally.
• Work in a fast-paced, highly detail-oriented service environment.

In Return, We Offer

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonus opportunities
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits
• Retirement savings plans
• Employee dining privileges across José Andrés Group restaurants
• Career growth within one of the world’s most respected hospitality organizations

Equal Opportunity Employer

José Andrés Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in the federal E-Verify Program.

Required Qualifications

• 4–6+ years of progressive leadership experience in fine dining or Michelin-starred restaurants.
• Demonstrated success leading teams in a tasting menu or chef-driven environment.
• Exceptional service instincts and a passion for luxury hospitality.
• Advanced food, wine, and beverage knowledge; sommelier or WSET training is a plus.
• Strong leadership presence with the ability to inspire, coach, and develop high-performing teams.
• Experience with reservations platforms such as TOCK, Resy, or SevenRooms, POS systems, and scheduling tools.
• Ability to maintain composure and precision in a high-expectation, detail-driven environment.
• Availability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays.