Experienced Catering Staff - On-CallSylvia's Restaurant – Harlem, New YorkThe world-famous Sylvia's Restaurant is seeking enthusiastic, service oriented, and dependable Catering Servers, Bartenders, and Catering Captains to join our Special Events team.
Position Overview:
Our catering staff members help create memorable experiences for guests at private parties, corporate events, community celebrations, weddings, and off-premises events. Candidates must be professional, guest-focused and dependable.
All team members must be flexible and willing to assist in different service roles based on the needs of each event.
Catering Servers
Responsibilities include:- Setting up and breaking down event spaces
- Greeting guests warmly and professionally
- Providing attentive food and beverage service
- Serving plated meals, buffets, and passed hors d'oeuvres
- Maintaining clean, organized tables and service areas
- Responding knowledgeably to guest questions
- Working closely with captains, bartenders, culinary staff, and management
- Assisting in other service areas as needed
- Following all food-safety and Sylvia's service standards
Bartenders
Responsibilities include:- Setting up, stocking, and breaking down event bars
- Preparing alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages accurately and efficiently
- Providing friendly, professional guest service
- Monitoring alcohol consumption and following responsible-service requirements
- Maintaining a clean, organized, and properly stocked bar
- Tracking beverage inventory and minimizing waste
- Working alongside and assisting servers with food and beverage service as needed
- Remaining flexible and transitioning between bartending and serving duties based on event needs
- Following all applicable liquor laws and company procedures
- Catering Captains
Responsibilities include:- Supervising catering staff before, during, and after events
- Reviewing event details, timelines, menus, and floor plans
- Leading pre-shift meetings and assigning staff responsibilities
- Coordinating with clients, event planners, culinary teams, and management
- Ensuring proper event setup, service execution, and breakdown
- Addressing guest concerns promptly and professionally
- Maintaining Sylvia's service, safety, and presentation standards
- Completing event reports and communicating important follow-up information
Qualifications:- Previous restaurant, banquet, catering, or hospitality experience required
- Captain applicants should have prior supervisory or event-leadership experience
- Bartenders must have strong knowledge of classic cocktails and responsible alcohol service
- Willingness to work across service positions and assist wherever needed
- Excellent communication and customer-service skills
- Professional appearance and positive attitude
- Ability to work effectively as part of a team
- Ability to stand for extended periods and safely lift up to 50 pounds
- Flexible availability; including evenings, weekends, and holidays
- Food-handler and alcohol-service certifications are a plus
Join the Sylvia's family and help us continue a Harlem legacy built on great food, warm hospitality, love of community, and memorable guest experiences.
Sylvia's Restaurant is an equal opportunity employer.
