Musaafer NYC, the New York outpost of the award-winning concept behind Houston’s Michelin-starred culinary destination, is seeking a Wine Director to lead our wine program.
As our Wine Director, you’ll be entrusted with curating and evolving a world-class wine program that reflects our culinary vision, supports the guest experience, and elevates our team’s knowledge and service. You’ll work closely with the General Manager and Chef to build a program that is ambitious, balanced, and expressive — a true extension of our identity.
We are seeking a passionate, business-minded, and guest-driven leader to help define what hospitality and excellence look like. This is a rare opportunity to shape and execute a best-in-class wine program while also serving as a mentor and culture-setter.
This is more than a beverage role — it’s a leadership position. You’ll play a key part in our daily operations, support floor service, develop our team’s wine literacy, and uphold the high standards that define us.
What You'll Do
As a Wine Director, not only will you lead the wine program, but you’ll also serve as a leader on the dining room floor, ensuring smooth service, strong team performance, and memorable guest experiences every night. You’ll work closely with the General Manager and department heads to oversee daily operations, coach the FOH team, and uphold the systems and standards that support consistency, grace, and professionalism.
Your key responsibilities will include :
- Develop and maintain a world-class, award-worthy wine program that reflects the restaurant’s identity and supports the culinary vision.
- Drive beverage sales through thoughtful pairings, strategic pricing, and active guest engagement, using wine as a tool for both experience and revenue.
- Lead daily wine operations, including inventory management, purchasing, cost controls, and cellar organization. Maintain a clean, organized, and accessible cellar.
- Oversee wine service standards, including proper storage, glassware, and temperature control.
- Train and educate the team, from introductory knowledge to advanced wine theory and service. Lead pre-service meetings, tastings, and ongoing staff development.
- Deliver exceptional table-side wine service, including decanting, pairing recommendations, and storytelling that enhances the guest’s dining experience.
- Collaborate with the GM and Executive Chef to craft pairings and deliver a seamless guest experience.
- Foster relationships with distributors, importers, and producers, and stay ahead of market trends, allocations, and opportunities.
- Assist in managing the FOH team, including scheduling, coaching, and upholding service standards.
- Contribute to opening operations, from glassware selection and list development to training materials and systems implementation.
- Drive programming and events, such as winemaker dinners and education series
Who You Are
A dynamic wine professional with deep knowledge and genuine curiosity — you bring a world-class palate and a grounded presence2+ years of experience managing a high-level wine program, preferably in a Michelin-rated or fine dining settingA natural mentor and team leader who values collaboration, humility, and professionalismProven ability to lead by example with a collaborative spirit and inspire a team through empathy, presence, and professionalismExceptional communication and interpersonal skills; you’re as comfortable leading pre-shift as you are guiding a guest through their experienceKeen financial acumen with a track record of managing budgets, meeting targets, and improving performanceDeep understanding of service steps, pacing, etiquette, hospitality philosophy, and an unwavering commitment to guest serviceHighly organized, with a proven ability to lead a team under pressure, stay composed during service, and solve problems with tactSkilled in POS systems, reservation platforms, operational software, inventory management, and labor scheduling toolsFamiliar with NYC beverage laws, compliance, and the logistics of building a list from the ground upAble to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as neededAble to lift 40+ lbs and be on your feet for extended periodsPreferred But Not Required
CMS level 2 or better, WSET level 3 or better, or similar certificationFamiliarity with POS, inventory, and cellar management systemsExperience opening a restaurant or leading a team through a major launchMultilingual (especially French, Italian, Spanish, Hindi, or Bengali)Knowledge of NYC wine laws and distributor landscapeWhat We Offer
Competitive salary and performance-based bonus opportunitiesComprehensive health, dental, and vision benefitsPaid time off and holiday payPre-opening training and onboarding with a seasoned teamOpportunities for continued growth within a Michelin-recognized restaurant groupA values-driven, respectful, and guest-focused team cultureGenerous dining discounts across our conceptsJoin us in shaping a new chapter in New York’s dining scene. We’re building a team, a culture, and an experience. If you’re a wine leader with heart, hustle, and vision, we want to hear from you.
This is a rare opportunity to build something meaningful, with the support of a seasoned team and the excitement of a newly opened restaurant. If you’re a wine professional looking to lead with integrity, inspire with knowledge, and grow alongside a top-tier restaurant, we’d love to meet you.
Apply with your resume and a brief cover letter. Let us know why you’re the right fit and how you envision the future of wine in New York.