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Restaurant Manager Resume Examples & Templates

5 free customizable and printable Restaurant Manager samples and templates for 2026. Unlock unlimited access to our AI resume builder for just $9/month and elevate your job applications effortlessly. Generating your first resume is free.

Assistant Restaurant Manager Resume Example and Template

What's this resume sample doing right?

Strong impact in experience section

The resume highlights significant achievements, like increasing customer satisfaction scores by 20% and reducing waste by 15%. These quantifiable results show Emily's effectiveness in a management role, which is crucial for a Restaurant Manager.

Relevant skills listed

Emily includes essential skills such as 'Team Leadership' and 'Inventory Management'. These align well with the responsibilities of a Restaurant Manager, showcasing her capability to handle key aspects of the role.

Clear and concise summary

The introduction succinctly presents Emily as a dynamic professional with over 5 years of experience. It effectively sets the tone for her qualifications, making her a strong candidate for a Restaurant Manager position.

How could we improve this resume sample?

Lacks specific restaurant management keywords

The resume could benefit from incorporating more specific keywords like 'staff scheduling' or 'cost control'. This would enhance ATS compatibility and align better with typical Restaurant Manager job descriptions.

Limited detail on educational background

While Emily has a degree in Hospitality Management, the education section could include more specifics about relevant coursework or projects. This would further demonstrate her preparedness for a Restaurant Manager role.

More emphasis on leadership experience

While Emily mentions leading a team of 30, expanding on her leadership style or challenges faced could strengthen her profile. This would provide a clearer picture of her management skills relevant to a Restaurant Manager position.

Restaurant Manager Resume Example and Template

What's this resume sample doing right?

Strong impact in experience

The experience section highlights clear achievements, like increasing customer satisfaction scores by 25%. This quantifiable impact is crucial for a Restaurant Manager, showing you can enhance service quality effectively.

Relevant skills listed

Your skills section includes key competencies like Staff Management and Inventory Control. These are essential for a Restaurant Manager, signaling your ability to oversee operations and manage a team effectively.

Compelling summary statement

The summary effectively emphasizes your dynamic nature and results-oriented approach, making it clear you're a strong candidate for a Restaurant Manager role. It sets a positive tone right from the start.

How could we improve this resume sample?

Lacks specific industry keywords

While you have relevant skills, incorporating more industry-specific keywords, like 'POS systems' or 'customer feedback analysis', could help with ATS compatibility and align better with Restaurant Manager job descriptions.

Limited details on education

The education section could be enhanced by mentioning any relevant coursework or projects related to restaurant management. This can provide more context to your degree and its applicability to the role.

Experience section could detail roles more

Your experience is strong, but adding a bit more about your leadership style or how you motivated your team could provide better insights into your management approach as a Restaurant Manager.

Senior Restaurant Manager Resume Example and Template

What's this resume sample doing right?

Strong quantifiable achievements

The resume showcases impressive results, such as a 25% increase in customer satisfaction and a 35% rise in annual revenue. These quantifiable achievements demonstrate the candidate's effectiveness as a Restaurant Manager, making them a strong contender for similar roles.

Relevant skills listed

The skills section includes vital competencies like 'Budget Management' and 'Staff Training,' which are crucial for a Restaurant Manager. This alignment shows the candidate possesses the necessary expertise to excel in the position.

Clear and focused summary

The summary effectively highlights the candidate's extensive experience and results-driven approach. It gives a quick snapshot of their qualifications, which is essential for grabbing the attention of hiring managers in the restaurant industry.

How could we improve this resume sample?

Lacks specific technology mentions

The resume doesn't reference specific restaurant management software or tools, which could enhance its relevance. Including keywords like 'POS systems' or 'inventory management software' would improve ATS alignment and appeal to hiring managers.

Limited details in education section

The education section could benefit from additional details like relevant coursework or projects. This could provide further insight into the candidate's specialized knowledge in hospitality management, which is important for a Restaurant Manager role.

No mention of awards or recognitions

The resume doesn't include any awards or recognitions received in previous roles. Adding this information could further validate the candidate's accomplishments and enhance their appeal for the Restaurant Manager position.

General Manager (Restaurant) Resume Example and Template

What's this resume sample doing right?

Strong quantifiable results

The resume effectively highlights quantifiable achievements, like a 35% increase in revenue and a 25% improvement in employee retention. These metrics demonstrate the candidate's direct impact on restaurant success, which is crucial for a Restaurant Manager role.

Relevant skills listed

The skills section includes essential competencies like 'Operations Management' and 'Customer Service.' These skills align well with the responsibilities of a Restaurant Manager, making it easier for hiring managers to see the candidate's fit for the role.

Clear career progression

The resume shows a logical career progression from Floor Manager to General Manager. This trajectory indicates a solid foundation in restaurant operations, which is important for a Restaurant Manager looking to oversee multiple aspects of restaurant management.

How could we improve this resume sample?

Generic summary statement

The summary could be more tailored to the Restaurant Manager role. Adding specific achievements or qualities that relate directly to managing a restaurant would make it more compelling and better aligned with the job requirements.

Limited use of industry keywords

The resume lacks some industry-specific keywords like 'inventory management' or 'staff scheduling.' Including these terms could improve ATS matching and highlight relevant expertise for the Restaurant Manager position.

No mention of customer engagement strategies

While the resume mentions customer satisfaction scores, it doesn't detail specific strategies used to engage customers. Adding this information could show a deeper understanding of customer relations, which is vital for a Restaurant Manager.

Regional Restaurant Manager Resume Example and Template

What's this resume sample doing right?

Strong quantifiable achievements

The resume effectively showcases quantifiable results, like a 25% increase in sales and a 30% improvement in customer satisfaction. This highlights the candidate's ability to drive results, which is crucial for a Restaurant Manager.

Relevant experience in leadership

With over 10 years in the food service industry, the candidate demonstrates solid leadership skills, managing multiple locations. This experience aligns well with the responsibilities of a Restaurant Manager.

Comprehensive skills section

The skills section includes key competencies like 'Operational Efficiency' and 'Team Leadership'. These are essential for a Restaurant Manager and show the candidate's readiness for the role.

Clear and concise introduction

The introduction succinctly summarizes the candidate's experience and strengths. It effectively positions them as a strong candidate for a Restaurant Manager role, highlighting their key achievements.

How could we improve this resume sample?

Lacks specific industry keywords

The resume could benefit from incorporating more specific keywords related to restaurant management, like 'menu development' or 'cost control'. This would enhance ATS compatibility and appeal to hiring managers.

No clear objective statement

While the introduction is strong, adding a clear objective statement tailored to the Restaurant Manager role would better focus the resume. This would clarify the candidate's career goals and intentions.

Experience details could be more action-oriented

Some descriptions in the experience section could use stronger action verbs to enhance impact. For example, instead of 'Assisted in managing', using 'Led' would convey a stronger leadership role.

Education section lacks emphasis

The education section is somewhat understated. Highlighting relevant coursework or specific projects related to restaurant management could strengthen the candidate's qualifications for the Restaurant Manager position.

1. How to write a Restaurant Manager resume

Finding the right Restaurant Manager role can feel daunting, especially when you know you're up against many qualified candidates. How do you ensure your resume stands out? Hiring managers look for tangible results that showcase your ability to lead teams and enhance customer experiences. Unfortunately, many applicants focus too much on generic skills rather than demonstrating their unique contributions.

This guide will help you craft a resume that effectively highlights your achievements and leadership qualities. You'll learn to transform statements like "Managed a team" into impactful examples such as "Led a team of 20, increasing customer satisfaction by 25% during peak hours." We'll focus on key sections like work experience and resume summary to ensure your application resonates with employers. By the end, you'll have a polished resume that tells your professional story.

Use the right format for a Restaurant Manager resume

When crafting your resume for a Restaurant Manager position, it's best to stick with a chronological format. This format showcases your career progression clearly, making it easy for hiring managers to follow your growth in the industry. If you have gaps in your employment history or are changing careers, a combination or functional format may be more appropriate. Just remember to keep the structure ATS-friendly with clear sections and avoid complex graphics or tables.

Here are some formats to consider:

  • Chronological: Best for a steady career path in restaurant management.
  • Functional: Useful for those with gaps or changing careers.
  • Combination: Great for highlighting relevant skills alongside your work history.

Craft an impactful Restaurant Manager resume summary

Your resume summary is a snapshot of your professional background. For experienced candidates, a strong summary highlights your years in the industry, specialization, key skills, and top achievements. If you're entry-level or changing careers, an objective can express your goals and what you bring to the table. A solid formula for a summary is: '[Years of experience] + [Specialization] + [Key skills] + [Top achievement]'.

For a Restaurant Manager, focus on leadership, customer service, and operational efficiency in your summary. Tailor this section to reflect the specific skills and experiences that align with the job you're applying for, ensuring you resonate with potential employers.

Good resume summary example

Experienced Candidate: "Dynamic Restaurant Manager with over 8 years of experience in fine dining establishments, specializing in team leadership and customer satisfaction. Proven track record of increasing sales by 30% in one year at Heller and Sons."
Entry-Level Candidate: "Recent hospitality graduate with strong customer service skills seeking to leverage internship experience at Bergnaum into a Restaurant Manager role."

These summaries work because they highlight relevant experience, skills, and achievements, making a strong case for the candidates' suitability for the role.

Bad resume summary example

"Hardworking individual looking for a Restaurant Manager position. I want to help grow the business and make customers happy."

This fails because it lacks specifics about the candidate's experience, skills, and achievements. It doesn't provide a strong reason for hiring managers to consider them.

Highlight your Restaurant Manager work experience

List your work experience in reverse-chronological order. Start with your job title, company name, and the dates you worked there. Use bullet points to describe your responsibilities and accomplishments, beginning each point with a strong action verb. For a Restaurant Manager, focus on achievements that demonstrate your leadership and operational skills. Quantify your impact wherever possible. Instead of saying 'Managed the team,' try 'Led a team of 20, improving staff retention by 15% over two years.' You can also use the STAR method to frame your experiences effectively.

Remember that this section should showcase your most relevant experiences related to restaurant management. Tailor your descriptions to match the job you're applying for.

Good work experience example

• Spearheaded a team of 20 at Heller and Sons, boosting customer satisfaction scores by 25% through improved training programs and operational changes.

This works because it uses a strong action verb, provides quantifiable results, and highlights leadership in a concrete way.

Bad work experience example

• Helped manage daily operations at Bergnaum restaurant.

This example is vague and lacks specific metrics or results, making it less impactful. It doesn't clearly demonstrate the candidate's contributions or achievements.

Present relevant education for a Restaurant Manager

Include your educational background with the school name, degree, and graduation year or expected date. For recent graduates, make this section more prominent, possibly including your GPA or relevant coursework. If you're more experienced, this can be less emphasized, and GPA is often omitted. Don’t forget to mention any relevant certifications, either here or in a separate section.

This helps employers understand your academic foundation and any specialized training that makes you a stronger candidate for the Restaurant Manager role.

Good education example

University of Culinary Arts, Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management, Graduated May 2020, GPA: 3.8

This entry works well as it includes essential details and highlights academic achievement, which can be impressive for entry-level roles.

Bad education example

Some Community College, Culinary Degree

This example lacks clear details about the school, degree, and graduation date, which makes it less effective for potential employers.

Add essential skills for a Restaurant Manager resume

Technical skills for a Restaurant Manager resume

Inventory ManagementStaff Training and DevelopmentCost Control and BudgetingCustomer Service ExcellenceHealth and Safety Compliance

Soft skills for a Restaurant Manager resume

LeadershipCommunicationProblem-SolvingTime ManagementTeam Collaboration

Include these powerful action words on your Restaurant Manager resume

Use these impactful action verbs to describe your accomplishments and responsibilities:

LedCoordinatedImplementedBoostedAnalyzedTrainedStreamlinedOptimizedResolvedDirectedFacilitatedCultivatedEnhancedManagedMonitored

Add additional resume sections for a Restaurant Manager

Consider adding sections like Projects, Certifications, or Volunteer Experience, as they can provide more depth to your application. For a Restaurant Manager, showcasing additional projects or certifications in management or food safety can strengthen your resume.

Good example

Certifications: ServSafe Manager Certification, Food Safety Certification (2022), Leadership in Hospitality Management (2021)

This entry works well because it highlights relevant certifications that demonstrate the candidate's commitment to their professional development and industry standards.

Bad example

Volunteer work at local charity.

This is vague and lacks specifics about the role or impact, which makes it less effective. It doesn’t clearly connect to restaurant management.

2. ATS-optimized resume examples for a Restaurant Manager

Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are software tools that scan resumes for specific keywords and formatting before they reach human eyes. For a Restaurant Manager position, optimizing your resume is crucial. If your resume lacks the right keywords or is formatted poorly, it could be rejected without ever being seen by a hiring manager.

To make your resume ATS-friendly, use standard section titles like 'Work Experience', 'Education', and 'Skills'. Naturally incorporate relevant keywords from job descriptions, such as 'staff management', 'inventory control', and 'customer service'. Avoid complex formatting like tables, columns, or images, which ATS may struggle to read. Instead, stick to standard fonts and file formats like PDF or .docx.

  • Use clear section headings.
  • Include relevant keywords from job postings.
  • Avoid complex formatting.
  • Choose standard fonts like Arial or Times New Roman.
  • Save your resume as a PDF or .docx file.

Common mistakes include using synonyms instead of exact keywords. Also, relying on headers that ATS might ignore can lead to missed opportunities. Don't forget to include essential skills, tools, or certifications that relate to the Restaurant Manager role.

ATS-compatible example

Work Experience

Restaurant Manager at McKenzie and Sons
June 2019 - Present
- Managed a team of 15 staff, overseeing daily operations and ensuring high customer satisfaction.

Why this works: This example uses clear section headings and includes relevant keywords like 'managed', 'team', and 'customer satisfaction'. It shows the candidate's experience in a straightforward manner that ATS can easily read.

ATS-incompatible example

My Job History

Head Honcho at Douglas and Powlowski
January 2020 - Present
- Responsible for managing the restaurant and making sure everything was running smoothly.

Why this fails: The section title 'My Job History' is non-standard, making it harder for ATS to categorize the information. Using vague language like 'head honcho' and 'running smoothly' lacks specific keywords relevant to the Restaurant Manager role, which can lead to the resume being overlooked.

3. How to format and design a Restaurant Manager resume

Choosing the right resume template is crucial for a Restaurant Manager role. A clean, professional layout works best, especially one that follows a reverse-chronological format. This style highlights your experience in a clear way, making it easy for hiring managers and applicant tracking systems (ATS) to read.

Keep your resume to one page if you’re at an entry-level or mid-career stage. However, if you have extensive experience, two pages can be acceptable. Just remember, being concise is key to grabbing attention and keeping it.

Use professional, ATS-friendly fonts like Calibri or Arial, sizing your body text between 10-12pt and headers at 14-16pt. Make sure your resume has enough white space and consistent spacing to enhance readability. Simplicity in formatting is essential; it makes it easier for both human eyes and ATS to navigate your information.

Avoid common mistakes like using overly complex templates with graphics, excessive colors, or non-standard fonts. These can confuse ATS and detract from your professional appearance. Also, ensure you have clear section headings to guide the reader through your experience and skills.

Well formatted example

Stacey Howe
Restaurant Manager
Kuhlman LLC
1/2020 - Present
- Oversee daily restaurant operations, ensuring high quality customer service.
- Manage a team of 30 staff members, improving service efficiency by 20% through training.

This layout is effective because it uses clear headings and bullet points for easy reading. The format is straightforward, making it easy for ATS to parse the information.

Poorly formatted example

Melodie Towne
Restaurant Manager
Hessel Inc
1/2018 - Present

  • Managed daily operations and staff
  • Increased customer satisfaction and sales

This format fails because it uses bullet points without clear section headings, which can confuse readers. Lack of adequate spacing makes it feel cluttered, reducing overall readability.

4. Cover letter for a Restaurant Manager

Writing a tailored cover letter for a Restaurant Manager position is essential. It complements your resume and shows genuine interest in the role. A well-crafted cover letter can highlight your leadership skills, industry knowledge, and customer service expertise.

Key Sections Breakdown:

  • Header: Include your contact information, the company's details, and the date.
  • Opening Paragraph: Start by stating the specific position you're applying for. Express enthusiasm for the restaurant and briefly mention a key qualification or where you found the job listing.
  • Body Paragraphs: Connect your experience to the job requirements. Highlight key projects, specific skills like inventory management, and relevant soft skills such as communication and teamwork. Use examples and achievements that align with the restaurant's goals.
  • Closing Paragraph: Reiterate your interest in the role and express confidence in your ability to contribute. Include a call to action, like requesting an interview, and thank the reader for their time.

Keep a professional and enthusiastic tone. Tailor each letter to the specific restaurant, avoiding generic templates. This approach makes your application stand out.

Sample a Restaurant Manager cover letter

Dear Hiring Team,

I am excited to apply for the Restaurant Manager position at Olive Garden, as advertised on your careers page. With over five years of experience in the restaurant industry, I have successfully led teams to enhance customer satisfaction and boost revenue, making me a great fit for your team.

In my previous role at The Cheesecake Factory, I managed a diverse staff of 40 employees while ensuring a smooth operation during peak hours. I implemented a new training program that improved service speed by 20% and increased our customer satisfaction ratings. My commitment to maintaining high standards and fostering a positive work environment helped reduce staff turnover by 15%.

I am particularly drawn to Olive Garden because of your commitment to quality and guest experience. I have a passion for creating a welcoming atmosphere and ensuring that every diner leaves happy. I believe my strong communication skills and ability to handle high-pressure situations will contribute positively to your restaurant's success.

I would love the opportunity to discuss how my background and skills align with the goals of Olive Garden. Thank you for considering my application. I hope to hear from you soon.

Sincerely,
Jessica Smith

5. Mistakes to avoid when writing a Restaurant Manager resume

When you're applying for a Restaurant Manager position, your resume needs to reflect your leadership skills and operational expertise. Paying attention to details can make a big difference in how potential employers perceive your qualifications.

Avoiding common mistakes helps you present a clear and compelling case for why you're the right fit for the job.

Being vague about responsibilities

Mistake Example: "Responsible for managing the restaurant."

Correction: Be specific about your duties and achievements. Instead, write: "Oversaw daily operations of a 150-seat restaurant, improving customer satisfaction scores by 20% through staff training and efficient service management."

Using a generic resume

Mistake Example: "Managed staff and handled customer complaints in various establishments."

Correction: Tailor your resume for each application. Instead, write: "Managed a team of 20 at Bella Italia, reducing turnover rates by 30% by fostering a positive work environment and implementing recognition programs."

Neglecting quantifiable achievements

Mistake Example: "Increased sales during my tenure."

Correction: Provide numbers to back up your claims. Instead, write: "Increased restaurant sales by 15% within six months by launching a targeted marketing campaign and optimizing menu pricing."

Ignoring formatting issues

Mistake Example: "Manager, Restaurant Name, City, State" (no clear structure).

Correction: Use clear headings and bullet points for easy reading. Instead, format it like this:
Restaurant Manager
Bella Italia, New York, NY
June 2020 - Present

  • Managed a team of 20 employees.
  • Improved customer retention by 25% through exceptional service.

Including irrelevant information

Mistake Example: "Hobbies include hiking and painting."

Correction: Focus on relevant skills and experiences. Instead, mention: "Trained in food safety regulations and inventory management systems, ensuring compliance and reducing waste by 10%."

6. FAQs about Restaurant Manager resumes

Creating a resume for a Restaurant Manager position requires highlighting your leadership skills, operational knowledge, and customer service expertise. This section covers common questions and tips to help you craft a resume that showcases your strengths.

What skills should I highlight in my Restaurant Manager resume?

Focus on skills like:

  • Leadership and team management
  • Customer service excellence
  • Inventory and cost control
  • Food safety compliance
  • Conflict resolution
These skills show you can effectively manage a restaurant and lead a team.

What is the best resume format for a Restaurant Manager?

A chronological format works best. Start with your most recent experience and list your job titles, responsibilities, and achievements. This format helps employers see your career progression and relevant experience clearly.

How long should my Restaurant Manager resume be?

Keep it to one page if you have less than 10 years of experience. If you have more, a two-page resume is acceptable. Just ensure every detail is relevant to the role.

How can I showcase my achievements in the restaurant industry?

Use specific metrics to demonstrate your impact. For example:

  • Increased sales by 20% through staff training and menu optimization
  • Reduced food waste by 15% by implementing new inventory processes
These details make your contributions tangible.

How should I address employment gaps in my resume?

Be honest about gaps. Use this space to explain any relevant experiences gained during that time, like volunteering or taking courses. This shows you're proactive and dedicated to your growth.

Pro Tips

Quantify Your Successes

Whenever possible, use numbers to illustrate your achievements. For instance, mention how you increased customer satisfaction scores or improved staff retention rates. Numbers grab attention and add credibility to your claims.

Use Action Verbs

Start your bullet points with strong action verbs like 'led', 'developed', or 'implemented'. This approach makes your responsibilities sound dynamic and impactful, showcasing your proactive nature.

Tailor Your Resume

Customize your resume for each job application. Use keywords from the job description to show you have the skills and experience they’re looking for. This small step can make a big difference in getting noticed.

Include Relevant Certifications

If you have certifications in food safety, management, or customer service, include them. These credentials can set you apart from other candidates and demonstrate your commitment to professional development.

7. Key takeaways for an outstanding Restaurant Manager resume

Creating a strong resume as a Restaurant Manager is key to landing your next job. Here are some important tips to keep in mind:

  • Use a clean, professional format that's easy to read and ATS-friendly.
  • Highlight relevant skills and experiences, such as staff management, customer service, and budgeting, tailored to the Restaurant Manager role.
  • Employ strong action verbs and quantify your achievements, like 'increased sales by 20% over six months.'
  • Optimize your resume for Applicant Tracking Systems by including job-relevant keywords naturally throughout your document.

With these tips, you’re well on your way to crafting a resume that grabs attention. Consider using resume-building tools or templates to make the process easier. Good luck with your job search!

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