Lead Bartender

Job Responsibility:

ABOUT PEPINO'S SPAGHETTI HOUSE

Located in the heart of Vancouver's Little Italy, Pepino's Spaghetti House — affectionately known as 'The House that Spaghetti Built” — is a nostalgic, high-energy spot serving up Italian-American classics with character and charm. Housed in the former Nick's Spaghetti House, a Commercial Drive institution for over 60 years, Pepino's proudly carries on the legacy with its iconic wood-paneled walls, warm and welcoming booths, a vintage thatched-roof bar, and photographs lining the walls offering a snapshot into the past.

We serve up red sauce favourites like spaghetti and meatballs, deep dish pizzas, mozzarella sticks, and legendary tiramisu — all made with high-quality, thoughtfully-sourced ingredients. While the flavours lean classic, we're always playing with creativity and seasonal ideas to keep the menu fresh and fun.

As a member of Banda Volpi — the acclaimed restaurant group behind Savio Volpe, Elio Volpe, and La Tana — Pepino's is part of a team recognized for creating some of Canada's most well-regarded dining experiences. Banda Volpi (meaning “gang of foxes”) has earned a national reputation, celebrated for emphasizing thoughtful cuisine, warm hospitality, and exceptional service. The group has received numerous accolades, including Michelin recommendations, a variety of Vancouver Magazine awards, Gold at the Vancouver International Wine Festival , and placements on Canada's 100 Best Restaurants .

We're looking for passionate, hospitality-driven front-of-house team members who love great food, great people, and bring their own great energy. If you're someone who brings personality to the floor, thrives in a fast-paced environment, and cares about creating memorable guest experiences, we'd love to meet you.

OUR CULTURE PILLARS

We are driven by our Culture Pillars — the values that guide everything we do:

• WE SHOW UP FOR EACH OTHER. We value our associates and strive to build trust, communication, and empowerment.
• WE CREATE AND GROW. We expand our knowledge and push our boundaries to build a culture defined by creativity, innovation, and collaborative growth.
• WE ARE GUEST OBSESSED. We welcome everyone as if they are guests in our own home, placing guests at the forefront of everything we do. Hospitality is in our DNA.

WHAT YOU'LL DO:

• Lead the daily bar operations during service, ensuring consistency in quality, speed, and presentation
• Set the tone for a professional and energized bar culture through hands-on leadership and mentorship
• Work closely with the Beverage Director, Bar Manager, and Management Team to support beverage programming and training initiatives
• Provide exceptional service to guests at the bar, offering warm hospitality, timely attention, and knowledgeable recommendations
• Help train new bartenders and support the growth of junior team members through ongoing coaching and feedback
• Ensure proper bar prep, cleanliness, and closing procedures are completed daily to maintain high standards
• Support inventory tracking, communicate stock needs, and assist with ordering
• Oversee prep and quality control of syrups, juices, and cocktail components
• Maintain current knowledge of spirits, beer, wine, and cocktails—and bring a genuine curiosity to learn and grow
• Uphold health, safety, and cleanliness standards in all bar areas
• Be a leadership presence on the floor, contributing to the overall success of service

QUALIFICATIONS:

• 2+ years bartending experience in a fast-paced, full-service restaurant
• Proven leadership skills and the ability to coach and motivate others
• A passion for cocktails and spirits
• Strong attention to detail and consistency in beverage preparation
• Excellent communication and guest service skills
• Ability to multitask and stay calm under pressure
• An interest in expanding your knowledge and contributing ideas to the beverage program
• Experience in training others and a genuine desire to foster team growth

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS:

• $19 -$22 hourly plus gratuities
• Daily staff meal
• Extended health benefits program
• Staff recognition and milestone program
• Generous staff dining discounts across Banda Volpi restaurants
• Ongoing professional development and advancement opportunities

AVAILABILITY:

• Full-time, five shifts per week
• Must be available on weekends (Saturday and Sunday)

We're excited to meet individuals who share our love for hospitality and are ready to grow with us.