Restaurant Manager - Lasdun National Theatre - Compass Group UK : Job Details

Restaurant Manager - Lasdun | National Theatre London

£42,000 per annum (£32k basic + £10k TRONC)

NT Food & Drink is a unique and dynamic partnership driven by Levy and KERB, embedded within the National Theatre on the South Bank. Our ambition to create a world-class hospitality destination at the heart of the world's most iconic theatre is powered by our progressive people-first approach, centred on environmental and social sustainability. We celebrate inclusivity with purpose, putting the development and progression of our future leader’s centre stage. Our shared goal is to ensure all food and drink spaces support the NT's overall values, vision, and culture.

Purpose

Reporting to the General Manager, the Restaurant Manager is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the restaurant, with a strong focus on customer service and cultivating a high-performance service culture. They will oversee daily managerial duties, equipping the team with the necessary tools and knowledge to deliver exceptional service. Thriving in a high-volume environment, the Restaurant Manager will have a natural flair for hospitality and confidence in providing premium dining experiences.

Set within an iconic landmark building, the restaurant is a timeless British brasserie that upholds the high standards of the National Theatre. The concept emphasizes the finest British produce, featuring shellfish from Devon, Cornwall, and Scotland’s north coast, beef and lamb from the Lake District, and vegetables and salads sourced from organic farms in Kent. The bar offers a curated selection of traditional cocktails and an extensive wine list, blending classic varietals with natural wine styles.

Responsibilities

• Lead, support, and develop a high-performing front-of-house team.
• Ensure smooth restaurant operations while delivering world-class hospitality.
• Drive sales growth and manage budgets, financial KPIs, and wage control.
• Maintain exceptional service standards and build strong guest relationships.
• Execute initiatives such as seasonal menu launches and exclusive events.
• Oversee compliance, food safety, health regulations, and sustainability commitments.
• Manage guest feedback and online advocacy to enhance customer loyalty.
• Ensure systems, equipment, and reporting processes run efficiently.

Requirements

• A natural leader with presence, maturity, and the ability to inspire and support a team.
• A people-first professional who thrives in a dynamic, high-volume environment.
• Strong knowledge of classic and natural wines (WSET Level 2 or higher) and cocktails, with the ability to engage and upsell.
• Experience in a quality brasserie or relaxed yet refined dining setting.
• Adaptable and resilient, balancing structured service standards with flexibility.
• A hospitality enthusiast who genuinely connects with guests, remembers regulars, and elevates each experience.
• A problem solver who embraces challenges, seeks continuous improvement, and contributes positive energy.

What You’ll Bring:

• A guest-first mindset—going the extra mile to build relationships and win people over.
• Confidence and expertise in menus, produce, and procedures, ensuring smooth service.
• Curiosity and creativity, always bringing fresh ideas to enhance service and operations.
• A human approach—understanding that perfection isn’t always possible but striving for excellence every day.

Benefits

• Healthcare & Wellbeing – Medicash health benefits (including dental, mental health & optical for you and up to 4 children), free annual health check with Aviva Digicare, discounts at Nuffield Health & Pure Gym, and access to our Employee Assistance Programme.
• Exclusive Perks & Discounts – Save on entertainment (up to 55% off cinema tickets), shopping (up to 15% off), Vodafone plans, and travel with top providers such as TUI & Expedia.
• Workplace Benefits – Meals on duty, pension scheme, life assurance, and professional subscriptions paid.
• Leave & Family Support – 23 days + bank holidays, your birthday off, extra leave after maternity return, a day off for your baby’s 1st birthday, and a holiday purchase scheme.
• Career & Financial Support – Ongoing training & development, career pathways, financial wellbeing programme, and preferred rates on salary finance products.
• Exclusive National Theatre discounts (15% off outlets, 25% off Bookshop, complimentary show tickets)
• Food & drink discounts (Kerb Card: 20% off drinks, 50% off food at Seven Dials Market)
• VIP last-minute O2 show tickets (subject to availability)
• Discounted onsite parking (£4/day)

About Us

Levy UK & Ireland, a vibrant and exciting division of Compass Group, specializes in creating legendary food, drink, and hospitality experiences at world-class venues. In the UK, Levy partners with renowned locations such as Wimbledon, Twickenham, Tottenham Hotspur, and ExCel London, focusing on sustainability, wellbeing, and diversity. Known for its culinary excellence, Levy champions sustainably sourced ingredients and exceptional service, aligning with its mission to "do the right thing" for people and the planet. As proud partners of the British Paralympic Association, we ensure all team members are paid at least the Real Living Wage or London Living Wage and collaborate with innovative brands to deliver best-in-class experiences.

At Levy UK & Ireland, we take pride in fostering a workplace culture that celebrates diversity and promotes inclusion. We believe that our differences are our greatest strengths, and we are committed to creating an environment where every individual is valued, respected, and empowered.

Our team is a vibrant tapestry of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives, which enriches our creativity, innovation, and overall success. We are dedicated to providing equal opportunities, promoting fairness, and ensuring that all voices are heard.

We firmly believe that a diverse team leads to innovation and creativity. We welcome candidates from all walks of life and backgrounds to join us in our mission to create a supportive and equitable work environment where everyone has the chance to excel and collaborate.