Bar Manager — MA/NA (Opening early 2026)
Location: 30 Upper Grosvenor Street, Mayfair
About MA/NA
Opening in early 2026 on Upper Grosvenor Street, MA/NA is born from the Japanese philosophy that every ingredient carries an invisible power — a life-force shaped by nature and the hands that honour it.
‘Mana’ is the spiritual energy that exists beneath the surface of all things. It is felt rather than seen — transforming emotion into experience, and a meal into memory.
Guided by this belief, MA/NA offers a seamless blend of restaurant and bar — refined Japanese dishes alongside an exceptional cocktail, wine and sake list. Here, cocktails flow effortlessly into dinner, and dinner naturally returns to drinks.
Every element — from design and service to sound and light — is intentional. Each detail celebrates the extraordinary within the simple.
The Role — Bar Manager
As Bar Manager at MA/NA, you will lead the creation and delivery of an exceptional bar programme that celebrates the balance between precision, creativity, and craft.
You will be responsible for developing and maintaining a world-class cocktail offering — one that reflects harmony, discovery, and respect for technique. You’ll guide your team and guests through a journey of flavour, texture, and emotion, connecting them to the philosophy and energy that define MA/NA.
Working closely with the Head Sommelier and Executive Chef, you’ll ensure seamless synergy between cocktails, cuisine, and service — creating a bar experience that moves effortlessly between energy and calm.
This is a leadership role suited to a Bar Manager who embodies artistry, discipline, and emotional intelligence — someone who understands that the right drink, at the right moment, can become a lasting memory.
Key Responsibilities
* Oversee all aspects of the bar programme, from concept development and menu creation to service delivery and team training
* Curate an innovative and balanced cocktail list that reflects both Japanese philosophy and modern mixology
* Collaborate with the Executive Chef, Head Sommelier, and beverage team to ensure harmony between cocktails, food, wine, and sake
* Lead, inspire, and mentor the bar team to deliver intuitive, refined, and emotionally engaging service
* Manage inventory, cost control, and supplier relationships with precision and integrity
* Maintain the highest standards of presentation, cleanliness, and organisation behind the bar
* Drive creativity through ongoing research, tastings, and collaboration within the industry
* Represent MA/NA at events, collaborations, and industry showcases
What We’re Looking For
* Proven experience as a Bar Manager or Head Bartender in a fine dining or high-end cocktail environment
* Deep understanding of classic and contemporary cocktail techniques and flavour profiles
* Strong knowledge of Japanese spirits, ingredients, and bar culture
* Exceptional leadership and team development skills
* Refined palate, creative curiosity, and attention to detail
* Excellent guest communication and storytelling ability
* Organised, disciplined, and calm under pressure
* A desire to help shape one of London’s most exciting new openings
What We Offer
* Competitive salary and service charge package
* Opportunity to lead the bar programme for a flagship opening within the Thesleff Group
* Collaboration with world-class chefs, sommeliers, and beverage professionals
* Continued training, tastings, and professional development
* Staff meals, wellness initiatives, and a supportive, creative working environment
Join the MA/NA Opening Team
If you are guided by balance, curiosity, and craft — and want to shape a bar experience where emotion meets precision — we’d love to hear from you.