Yamagen - Assistant Restaurant Manager & Sommelier

Yamagen is part of EVT - and being a part of EVT means believing in changing the game. Why? Because no one wants ordinary. If you're seeking to be part of the kind of wow-factor moments you can help shape, then you've come to the right place.

About EVT

As market-leading experience creators, we bring to life some of the best-known brands and properties in entertainment, ventures, and travel. Our portfolio includes over 140 entertainment experiences like Event Cinemas and Moonlight Cinemas, 150 award-winning restaurants and bars, and 80+ hotels, including QT, Rydges, Atura, LyLo, Independent Collection by EVT and Thredbo. Our ventures include a ~$2.3B property portfolio and hotel management, just to name a few.

About QT

QT Hotels & Resorts is EVT's premium lifestyle hotel brand, with locations in Australia, New Zealand and Singapore. Pioneers behind the philosophy of 'expect the unexpected', every property delivers an experience that combines local influence with QT's signature quirk. And our people? With personalities as diverse as each property, individuality is more than encouraged.

Woven into the city's fabric, QT Melbourne is at the heart of the CBD's cultural beat. Want to come into our fold? Show us your service-minded side and help keep luxury evolving across 188 industrial inspired rooms and signature dining at our award-winning restaurant, Yamagen. We can't wait to see what you've got.

About Yamagen

Step into Yamagen. Cool and casual izakaya drink and dine vibe folded with formidable culinary discipline; this is new generation Japanese for the discerning diner. Glossy enamel black finishes frame eye-catching details.  Our Whisky list is a towering narrative of character, written by refined Japanese distilleries. Sip from a select saké collection and sample curious cocktails in this low-lit showcase of Tokyo chic.

From kitchen and bar, tradition and invention are hand-rolled with market-fresh sashimi and intricate sushi sensations. Indulge your guests with delectable share plates, shimi over and enjoy dishes from our live fuel robata, or bow to the formidable technique of Executive Chef Adam Lane for a tantalising Omakase experience.

About the role

We are seeking a motivated, talented and vibrant Assistant Restaurant Manager & Sommelier to deliver an exceptional food & beverage experience, with a strong emphasis on sake, whiskies, and a diverse wine selection, in the dynamic dining environment of Yamagen. The ideal candidate will have a "team-first" attitude, a passion for excellence, and the drive to succeed in this dynamic industry.

We are after a dedicated professional who would embrace the opportunity to work for Australia's leading designer hotel brand. If you have the skills, creativity, and dedication to make an impact, we'd love to hear from you

Position Overview

The Assistant Restaurant Manager & Sommelier at Yamagen is responsible for curating and delivering an exceptional food & beverage experience. This role requires a deep understanding of traditional and modern beverage pairings, exceptional guest interaction, and the ability to lead beverage training and recommendations with both guests and team members. The Assistant Restaurant Manager & Sommelier supports the restaurant's commitment to excellence, authenticity, and innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide expert guidance on wine, sake and Whiskies to enhance the guest dining experience.

• Develop and maintain an exceptional beverage program aligned with Yamagen's brand and culinary offering.

• Train and support the service team in beverage knowledge, presentation, and responsible service.

• Ensure the beverage list is well-curated, balanced, and updated regularly based on trends and stock availability.

• Work closely with suppliers and distributors to source unique and high-quality products.

• Deliver engaging and educational beverage experiences for guests, including tastings and pairings.

• Maintain accurate stock control, cellar organization, and beverage inventory management.

• Collaborate with the Head Chef and Restaurant Manager on menu pairings and seasonal changes.

• Ensure compliance with all licensing laws, health & safety, and RSA requirements.

• Uphold grooming and presentation standards in alignment with Yamagen's image.

• Participate in team briefings, training sessions, and meetings.

• Support service during busy periods, acting as both a sommelier and floor ambassador

• Manage a service section during quieter periods, maintaining high standards of guest engagement and service delivery.

• Assist in developing beverage promotions and events to drive revenue and enhance guest engagement.

• Perform other duties as directed by the Restaurant Manager.

Skills & Experience

• Proven experience working with and a level of expertise high class beverages.

• Excellent knowledge of wine, sake and Whisky.

Benefits & Perks

• Incredible team member discounts from your first day on-the-job.

• 50% off stays at EVT hotels – Rydges, QT, Atura, Lylo and more.

• $2 movie tickets, plus Moonlight, Gold Class, Candy Bar discounts and more.

• Awesome winter and summer savings and discounts at Thredbo.

• Rapid career growth opportunities through our EVT network.