> I am in the process of looking for a new job - right now I am working
> at a local sports bar that is relatively new and unfortunately the
> business does not seem to be picking up so I have to move on. I am
> interested in working at a fine dining restaurant the only problem is
> I have no fine dining experience - with the exception of doing
> private upscale wedding receptions during the summer months. Many of
> the upscale "fine" restaurants require that you have several years of
> fine dining experience and knowledge of wine (beyond the basics) or
> they flat out will not hire you. For the experienced bartenders out
> there is there any way around this??? Where I live fine dining is
> where the money but I am having a hard time finding a job at a FD
> establishment. Any advice?
I have worked fine dining off and on for years. And you are correct that it
can be difficult to break in to. Wine knowledge is essential, as well as
being versed in classic cocktails. The only way I know to get in is to get to
know the managers/owners of the places you are interested in and have them
take an interest in you. Nepotism rules! Where I live, most restaurants
consider themselves fine dining, and are focused on wine more than anything.
You may want to take a part time gig with them as a host/bar back/food runner
just to get your foot in the door.
And to brush up on the vino, check out these books:
Windows to the World Wine Course by Kevin Zraly
Wine made Simple by Andea Immer
--
Chris
www.sfbarman.netwww.sfbarman.barstore.com