Job Title: Sommelier (Immediate Start)
Location: Namaste Lounge, Northwood Hills
Job Type: Full-Time
Start Date: Immediate
About the Role
Namaste Lounge is seeking an experienced and passionate Sommelier to join our award-winning team in Northwood Hills.
We are looking for a knowledgeable wine professional who understands how to pair wines with the bold, aromatic and diverse flavours of Indian and Asian cuisine. You will play a key role in enhancing our guests' dining experience by offering expert recommendations, developing our wine programme, and ensuring exceptional service standards.
This is an exciting opportunity for someone who is passionate about wine, hospitality and delivering memorable guest experiences in a premium restaurant environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide expert wine recommendations and pairings to complement our Indian and Asian menus.
- Deliver an exceptional level of personalised table-side wine service.
- Develop and maintain an innovative wine list that reflects current trends and complements our cuisine.
- Work closely with the Head Chef and management team to create food and wine pairing experiences.
- Manage wine stock, cellar organisation and inventory control.
- Build strong relationships with suppliers and source new and exciting wines.
- Conduct regular staff training to improve wine knowledge and service confidence.
- Ensure wines are stored, served and presented to the highest professional standards.
- Monitor sales performance and identify opportunities to increase wine revenue.
- Assist in planning and hosting wine tasting evenings and special events.
About You
We are looking for someone who has:
- Previous experience as a Sommelier in a high-quality restaurant, hotel or fine dining environment.
- Must embody warm hospitality.
- Good knowledge of Cocktails.
- A strong understanding of wine pairings with Indian cuisine.
- Excellent knowledge of both Old World and New World wines.
- Experience developing and managing wine lists.
- Outstanding customer service and communication skills.
- Confidence in recommending wines to guests of all levels of knowledge.
- Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail.
- A passion for hospitality and creating exceptional guest experiences.
- WSET Level 2 or Level 3 qualification (or equivalent) is highly desirable.
- Flexibility to work evenings, weekends and public holidays.
- Must be able to work between 11am - 11pm
Desirable Skills
- Knowledge of premium spirits, whisky, sake and cocktails.
- Experience with wine dinners, tasting events and supplier relationships.
- Understanding of current wine trends and emerging producers.
- Ability to train and mentor front-of-house staff.
What We Offer
- Immediate start.
- Competitive salary based on experience.
- Generous tips and service charge.
- Opportunity to work within an established and respected restaurant.
- Career development and ongoing training.
- Creative input into our wine programme and pairing menus.
- Staff meals and employee discounts.
- International supplier trips abroad.
- Bonus Scheme based on wine sales.
- Supportive and professional working environment.
- Annual team party.
- Regular face time with Director of Operations to support
How to Apply
If you are an experienced Sommelier with a passion for exceptional wines and a deep appreciation of Indian and Asian cuisine, we would love to hear from you.
Please send your CV along with a brief cover letter outlining your experience.
Join Namaste Lounge and help create unforgettable dining experiences through exceptional wine service, expert pairings, and genuine hospitality.
Pay: From £15.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Company events
- Employee discount
- On-site parking
- Referral programme
Work Location: In person