Restaurant General Manager – Historic Cafe & Bakery

Location: San Francisco, CA

Compensation: Base salary $120,000 per year + performance bonus (up to 15–20% based on KPIs) + excellent benefits package

Employment Type: Full-time, exempt

About Us:

We are one of San Francisco's most cherished historic cafe and bakeries, proudly serving locals and visitors for generations with artisan breads, pastries, classic coffee drinks, and hearty cafe fare. Rooted in tradition yet evolving to meet modern tastes, our venue blends timeless charm—think vintage architecture, handcrafted goods, and a loyal neighborhood following—with a commitment to quality, community, and sustainability. Join a team that values heritage, creativity, and exceptional hospitality in the heart of the City by the Bay.

Position Overview:

We are seeking an experienced, passionate General Manager to lead our iconic cafe and bakery operations. This role is ideal for a leader who thrives in a fast-paced, guest-focused environment, has a deep appreciation for artisan baking and cafe culture, and can drive operational excellence while preserving our historic legacy. Reporting directly to ownership, you'll oversee all aspects of daily operations, team leadership, financial performance, and guest experience.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and inspire a team of bakers, baristas, front-of-house staff, and support personnel (20–40+ team members depending on shifts).
• Manage full P&L responsibility, including budgeting, cost controls, inventory, and revenue growth targets.
• Ensure consistent high-quality production of artisan breads, pastries, cakes, and cafe menu items while upholding historic recipes and standards.
• Oversee front-of-house operations for seamless service, memorable guest experiences, and strong online/offline reviews.
• Develop and execute marketing initiatives, seasonal promotions, and community events to attract both locals and tourists.
• Maintain compliance with health/safety regulations, food handling standards, and all city/local requirements.
• Foster a positive, inclusive workplace culture with emphasis on training, retention, and professional development.
• Collaborate with ownership on strategic initiatives, menu evolution, vendor partnerships, and facility upkeep.

Qualifications:

• 5+ years of progressive management experience in cafes, bakeries, restaurants, or hospitality (preferably with bakery/cafe focus).
• Proven track record in a high-volume, guest-centric environment in a major market like San Francisco.
• Strong financial acumen with experience managing budgets, labor costs, and profitability.
• Passion for food, baking, coffee, and preserving culinary traditions.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including early mornings, weekends, and holidays (as typical in bakery/cafe settings).
• ServSafe certification (or willingness to obtain).
• Familiarity with POS systems, inventory software, and scheduling tools.

What We Offer:

• Competitive base salary of $120,000 + generous performance bonus.
• Excellent benefits including:
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• 401(k) with employer match.
• Paid time off (vacation, sick, holidays).
• Employee discounts on food, beverages, and baked goods.
• Opportunities for growth in a historic, beloved SF institution.
• Supportive ownership and a dedicated team proud of our legacy.

Ready to lead one of San Francisco’s most iconic spots? Apply today!