Restaurant Manager
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 rulesContracts, student jobs, and part-time arrangementsPayroll input, time tracking, and documentationMaintain 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.