Start: ASAP

Location Brussels

Languages: French, English, Dutch

I am looking for an experienced Restaurant Manager to lead a high-volume, service-driven restaurant in Brussels.

This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who thrives during busy dinner services, sets the standard for hospitality, and knows how to build, train, and retain a strong team.

The ideal candidate combines operational excellence with strong people leadership, has a solid understanding of Belgian employment law, and is passionate about delivering outstanding guest experiences every night.

Your Role

As Restaurant Manager, you will be responsible for the day-to-day running of the restaurant, with a strong focus on service quality, team performance, and compliance.

Operations & Service

• Lead the restaurant through busy lunch and especially busy dinner services, ensuring smooth, timely, and polished service.
• Set and uphold high standards of hospitality, table management, and guest care.
• Monitor floor operations, anticipate bottlenecks, and solve issues in real time.
• Ensure the dining room, bar, and service areas are always to standard.
• Work closely with the kitchen to ensure seamless front- and back-of-house coordination.

People, Training & Recruitment

• Recruit, onboard, and train FOH staff (servers, hosts, bartenders, runners).
• Build and maintain a motivated, professional team with a strong service culture.
• Plan rosters in line with Belgian labour regulations and business needs.
• Conduct regular training on service standards, menu knowledge, wine/beverage, and upselling.
• Provide coaching, feedback, and performance management; address underperformance promptly and fairly.

Guest Experience

• Act as the visible host on the floor, greeting guests and handling special requests.
• Resolve complaints calmly, professionally, and with a focus on recovery and retention.
• Monitor guest feedback (online reviews, comment cards) and implement improvements.
• Build relationships with regulars and VIP guests.

Compliance & Administration

• Ensure full compliance with Belgian employment law, including:
• Working hours, rest periods, and break rules
• Contracts, student jobs, and part-time arrangements
• Payroll input, time tracking, and documentation
• Maintain accurate records for labour inspections and audits.
• Oversee cash handling, end-of-day reconciliations, and basic reporting.
• Support budgeting and cost control (labour, waste, stock).

Your Profile

• Proven experience as a Restaurant Manager or Assistant Restaurant Manager in a busy, quality-focused restaurant in Brussels.
• Solid understanding of Belgian employment law and practical experience managing rosters, contracts, and compliance.
• Strong leadership skills: able to train, motivate, and develop a diverse FOH team.
• Excellent customer service instincts; calm and professional under pressure.
• Thrives in a fast-paced dinner service environment; comfortable being on your feet and leading from the floor.
• Fluent in French and/or Dutch; good English is a plus.
• Organised, hands-on, and solution-oriented; leads by example.
• Passionate about food, wine, and hospitality.