Job description
Laili Restaurant is Hiring a Restaurant Manager
Join the award-winning team at Laili Restaurant where Mediterranean flavors meet Afghan hospitality in the heart of downtown Santa Cruz. We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Restaurant Manager to lead all aspects of daily operations and inspire a team of 30–50 staff members across the front of house, kitchen, and back of house.
This is a key leadership role responsible for ensuring exceptional guest experiences, maintaining operational excellence, and driving continued growth in revenue and profitability.
What You’ll Do
Oversee all daily operations, coordinating both front and back of house teams
Uphold and elevate standards for food quality, service, and guest satisfaction
Foster a positive, productive work environment through mentorship and leadership
Manage staffing: recruit, schedule, train, and support team members
Monitor dining room flow, maintain seating efficiency, and ensure customer engagement
Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and sanitation standards
Handle customer feedback with professionalism and resolve issues promptly
Evaluate product quality and manage vendor relationships
Control costs, monitor inventory, and identify opportunities to improve efficiency
Generate and review detailed weekly/monthly/annual reports on revenue and expenses
Champion the Laili brand in the community and explore marketing opportunities
Develop strategies to attract new guests through promotions, events, and digital outreach
What We’re Looking For
3 years expierence as Restaurant Manager, General Manager, or similar leadership role
Strong background in both front of house service and kitchen/back of house operations
Demonstrated ability to lead teams, provide feedback, and foster a high-performance culture
Customer-first mindset with exceptional hospitality and problem-solving skills
Proficient in restaurant management software (OpenTable, Toast, 7 Shifts)
Knowledge of food safety regulations and labor compliance standards
Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills
Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality, Business Administration, or related field preferred
Why Laili?
We’re more than a restaurant, we’re a community of professionals passionate about delivering unforgettable dining experiences. As Restaurant Manager, you’ll have the opportunity to lead with creativity, cultivate a culture of excellence, and help shape the future of one of Santa Cruz’s most beloved dining destinations.
Ready to lead with purpose?
Submit your resume and cover letter