An exciting opportunity has opened up for an experienced bartender to join the team at Cognoscenti Food & Wine and take ownership of our bar.

Located in Belgrave, in the heart of the Dandenong Ranges and only 50 minutes from Melbourne CBD, Cognoscenti is a vibrant neighbourhood restaurant combining fresh, seasonal produce with European influences and a strong focus on great food, wine and hospitality.

Since opening in February 2022, we’ve continued to grow and evolve, and we’re now looking for a confident, organised and enthusiastic bartender to become an key part of our team.

This is more than simply a drinks-dispensing role. You’ll have the opportunity to take ownership of the day-to-day running of the bar , contribute ideas to our cocktail offering and help us continue developing the drinks experience at Cognoscenti.

Permanent part-time is available, with the opportunity for full time hours for the right candidate .

Cognoscenti Food & Wine | Belgrave, Dandenong Ranges

The Role

You’ll be responsible for keeping the bar organised, prepared and running smoothly throughout service, while working closely with our floor and management team.

Your responsibilities will include:

- Preparing and serving cocktails, spirits, wine, beer and other beverages
- Taking ownership of bar prep and mise en place before service
- Managing bar stock levels, ordering requirements and stocktakes
- Maintaining a clean, organised and well‑presented bar
- Contributing ideas and having input into cocktail creation and seasonal drinks
- Dispensing drinks efficiently during busy services
- Serving and engaging with guests seated at the bar




- Providing drink recommendations and delivering warm, knowledgeable service
- Working closely with the floor and kitchen teams to ensure smooth service

About You

We’re looking for someone who is confident behind the bar, enjoys taking responsibility and works well as part of a close‑knit team.

You’ll ideally have:

- A minimum of 1–2 years’ bartending experience
- Good knowledge of spirits and a solid understanding of classic cocktails
- Basic wine knowledge
- The ability to work quickly and efficiently in a fast‑paced restaurant environment
- Strong organisation and attention to detail
- A genuine interest in hospitality and looking after guests
- A positive attitude and willingness to contribute ideas
- The ability to work independently while also being a strong team player
- Availability to work nights and weekends

Barista experience is a bonus, but training can be provided.

What We Offer

- Permanent part-time or full-time employment for the right candidate
- Competitive pay based on experience
- The opportunity to take real ownership of the bar
- Creative input into our cocktail and drinks offering
- A professional but relaxed and friendly workplace
- Staff discounts when dining at Cognoscenti
- Opportunities to learn, develop and grow within the business
- A supportive, passionate and experienced hospitality team

If you’re an experienced bartender looking for a role where you can have more responsibility, bring your own ideas to the bar and become an important part of a growing restaurant, we’d love to hear from you.

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📌 Bartender – Permanent Part-Time / Full-Time (Melbourne)
🏢 Cognoscenti Food & Wine
📍 Melbourne