best application letter for job vacancy in a restaurant

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3 Restaurant Cover Letter Examples Made for 2024

• Restaurant Cover Letter
• Restaurant General Manager Cover Letter
• Restaurant Host Cover Letter
• Write Your Restaurant Cover Letter

High-level food service is your priority. Whether you’re applying to work on the wait staff or be in a supervisory role, you know you’ll achieve that with your top cleanliness, accuracy, and customer service skills.

Now, let’s set you on the road to writing a great cover letter to complement your restaurant resume and show restaurant hiring managers you’re the best fit for the job.

With so many qualifications, ranging from different types of food prep to understanding how to maintain health code standards, it’s only natural to wonder how to make a cover letter with all those elements included. Our restaurant cover letter examples will help by providing an easy template for success.

Restaurant Cover Letter Example

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Copy this text for your restaurant cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Miami, FL 33101 (123) 456-7890

October 10, 2023

Sophia Anderson The Surf Club Restaurant 123 Fictional Lane Miami, FL 33101

Dear Ms. Anderson,

As a sommelier, my goal is to enrich culinary journeys with the perfect wine, a value The Surf Club Restaurant embodies relentlessly. Reading reviews from food critics extolling your exceptional dining experience appealed to my conviction that your restaurant upholds the values of excellence, in-depth wine knowledge, and hospitality.

The Forge entrusted me with the opportunity to showcase my food and wine pairing prowess. I managed a dynamic menu, advising on pairings that reflected seasonal trends and guests’ preferences. Consequently, we noticed a 27% increase in wine sales.

As head sommelier at Vinya Wine, my role involved creating a diverse wine list featuring handpicked choices from 476 vineyards worldwide. Guests were enthralled by the exquisite union of rare and distinctive vintages, accompanied by enlightening educational sessions that fueled a 41% surge in wine sales.

As a Vinos at the Venetian wine auction’s overseer, I meticulously ensured that all featured wines complied with federal and state regulations. My watchful approach fostered integrity across seven successive events without a single violation.

I’m confident I can enhance the superb atmosphere at The Surf Club Restaurant. I look forward to discussing how my skills fit in your establishment. Thank you for considering my application.

Thiago Rocha

Enclosures: Resume Application 2 letters of recommendation Certifications

Why this cover letter works

• Take your restaurant cover letter introduction a notch higher by linking your passion for the viticulture industry and love for wine with the hiring restaurant’s mission and strides. Also, be sure to mention formal qualifications, such as sommelier certification.

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Restaurant General Manager Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your restaurant general manager cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Tucson, AZ 85641 (123) 456-7890

Mason Davis Red Lobster 123 Fictional Lane Tucson, AZ 85641

Dear Mr. Davis:

In the bustling heart of a spirited family-owned bistro in Tucson, AZ, I discovered an ever-evolving dance – the riveting world of restaurant management. This intricate ballet of maintaining cost-efficiency while delivering five-star dining experiences has fueled my passion for managing and leading within the food services industry. I bring a rich blend of expertise in labor forecasting, food cost analysis, supply chain optimization, and a dash of familiar Tucson charm to the role of restaurant general manager at Red Lobster.

I have honed a practical, hands-on management style over six dynamic years in restaurant leadership, climaxing in my role as a manager at Tucson’s very own The Parish. I utilized savvy tools like FastCasual and advanced labor forecasting to direct a team of 79, slicing overtime by an impressive 24% and maintaining high service quality. This meticulous management recipe earned us a richly deserved 2019 Best Managed Operations award.

As a seasoned professional in food cost analysis, I significantly improved bottom-line results by a staggering 23% at Wildflower. I optimized the supply-demand balance using software such as PeachWorks and Ctuit, minimizing expenses and waste.

My foray into supply chain optimization was transformative at RA Sushi Bar Restaurant, where we witnessed a substantial 19% reduction in stock-out instances. Employing innovative resources like Posist and forging keen relationships with local suppliers, I revamped our ingredient sourcing protocols, spurring improvements in meal punctuality and skyrocketing customer satisfaction.

These experiences have refined my abilities to adapt quickly, work collaboratively, deliver high-quality results on time, and make meaningful connections. Red Lobster stands out as the next chapter in my journey, where I can continue serving fantastic seafood dining experiences for every guest. Looking forward to detailing how I can contribute to your team. Thank you for considering my application.

Sebastien Martin

• Narrate examples of when your proficiency in hands-on management style, supply chain optimization, food analysis, and/or use of technology (Cue PeachWorks and Posist) fostered an impact in your previous workplaces. In this case, tangible results range from higher customer satisfaction to improved bottom line.

Restaurant Host Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your restaurant host cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Las Vegas, NV 88901 (123) 456-7890

Mia Hernandez Caesars Entertainment 123 Fictional Lane Las Vegas, NV 88901

Dear Ms. Hernandez,

In agreement with the sentiment that a dining experience can be unforgettable, my encounter at Caesars Entertainment embodies this belief. The combination of exquisite cuisine, outstanding service, and a sense of being genuinely valued as a guest touched a nerve with me. Fueled by my passion for crafting these remarkable moments and fortified by my skills in reservation management, and guest seating optimization, I’m thrilled to embark on this opportunity as the restaurant host at Caesars Entertainment.

Amidst the electrifying atmosphere of Vegas’s vibrant nightlife, I honed my reservation management prowess at the trendsetting Cosmopolitan. Skillfully adapting Resy software to oversee multiple reservation platforms, my team and I managed a nightly average of 62 reservations. By pinpointing busy periods and nimbly adjusting our approach, we elevated the filled seat count by 18% during peak times, accelerating turnover while leaving guests delighted with reduced waiting times.

My time at Chart House honed my knack for guest seating optimization as I identified patterns and developed well executed plans for accommodating various group sizes. This strategy, a brainchild I’m incredibly proud of, skyrocketed overall efficiency by a remarkable 22%. I tapped into Waitlist Me’s ingenuity, unlocking the potential of optimized seating arrangements, minimizing empty tables, and keeping turnover flowing smoothly.

Customer relationship management took on a magical quality during my days at the glamorous Eiffel Tower Las Vegas. Seamlessly blending Salesforce and my innate personal charm, my team and I delved into the depths of guest preferences. By tailoring experiences to individual tastes and proactively addressing concerns, we sent guest satisfaction rates soaring by 29%. To me, heartfelt gestures like a genuine smile, an affectionate “enjoy your meal,” or personalized touches make all the difference in making guests feel truly special.

Joining the esteemed ranks at Caesars Entertainment beckons as the next enticing chapter in my journey. I’m exhilarated by the prospect of orchestrating warm welcomes and crafting memories that will last a lifetime for our guests. Let’s discuss how I could be the next face welcoming visitors to your fantastic establishment.

Mateo Flores

• Solidify your piece with key skills like reservation management, guest seat optimization, and adding warmth to customer relations with concrete, weaving in the application of industry-specific software like Resy, Waitlist Me, and Salesforce. Top off this combo with eagerness to discuss your qualifications and contribute to the team.

Related cover letter examples

How to prepare an effective restaurant cover letter.

Preparing a restaurant cover letter is like tailoring your service and cooking style to the needs of each customer. However, when applying to jobs, it’s not quite as simple as asking how someone wants their steak done or which sides they’d like. 

Instead, review what they outline in the job description to understand each company’s needs and customize your cover letter accordingly. For instance, if you were applying to be a cook at a barbecue restaurant, your ability to operate grills, fryers, and broilers would be essential to emphasize in your cover letter. 

Write a tailored greeting and intro for your restaurant cover letter

The first thing to do in your restaurant cover letter is greet the hiring manager by name. You can often find a contact person listed in the restaurant’s job description or on their website. However, if you can’t, simply leading with “Dear [name of restaurant] hiring staff” will work well too. 

The next step is to relate to the restaurant’s mission and the essential skills they’re seeking in the first paragraph. For example, someone applying to be a waiter or waitress could explain how they want to use their customer service skills to help the restaurant achieve great tableside service that creates lasting memories for their guests. 

The example below doesn’t do a great job since the applicant doesn’t greet anyone by name or relate to the restaurant’s specific mission or goals. 

Lacking some details here! 

I was pleased to see your job opening for a kitchen supervisor. This looks like a great restaurant to work for, and I would be eager to use my five years of experience to help out in this role.

Instead, aim for an opener like the one below that shows the applicant’s passion for helping The Surf Club Restaurant achieve a great customer experience with in-depth wine knowledge. 

A great opener relating to company values! 

As a sommelier, I aim to enrich culinary journeys with the perfect wine, a value The Surf Club Restaurant embodies relentlessly. Reading reviews from food critics extolling your exceptional dining experience appealed to my conviction that your restaurant upholds the values of excellence, in-depth wine knowledge, and hospitality.

How to make the body of your restaurant cover letter more impactful

When you get into the body of your restaurant cover letter, it’s time to show how your work experiences and skills will make you successful in the role. 

One of the best ways to do so would be to detail metrics-based achievements that will be important to restaurants. For example, you could write about how you helped boost customer satisfaction ratings or used new cooking techniques to get orders prepared 15% faster. 

You could also focus on transferable skills if you don’t have much restaurant-related experience. For instance, many jobs in other industries will help you build customer service skills or accurate performance while multitasking. 

A great results-based body paragraph! 

Come to a memorable closing of your restaurant cover letter

As you close your restaurant cover letter, making a lasting impression on hiring managers will be important. 

A great way to do so is by relating to the restaurant’s mission and the top skills like kitchen sanitization or tableside service that you emphasized earlier. 

Then, it’s a good idea to thank the hiring manager for their time and end with a light call to action, such as “I look forward to discussing this restaurant host position with you further.”

The closer below doesn’t do a great job since it doesn’t relate to any key details about the restaurant’s mission or the skills they seek. 

Not a strong closer! 

Thank you for reviewing my qualifications. I believe my skills will make me a great fit for your restaurant, and I hope to hear from you soon. 

Jack Thompson

A better option is the closer below that relates to the meaningful connections and collaborative work experience that Red Lobster wants to achieve. 

A closer that’s relevant to the restaurant’s needs! 

These experiences have refined my abilities to adapt quickly, work collaboratively, deliver high-quality results on time, and make meaningful connections. Red Lobster stands out as the next chapter in my journey, where I can continue serving fantastic seafood dining experiences for every guest. I am looking forward to detailing how I can contribute to your team. Thank you for considering my application.

Restaurant Cover Letter Tips

• Whether writing down orders or whipping up expert-level dishes in the kitchen, accurate performance is essential to the customer experience. Therefore, including examples like how you implemented a new order management system using TouchBistro to boost accuracy by 47% will help you stand out.
• Do you know how to provide a great customer experience? Including metrics like customer satisfaction scores or the average reviews your restaurant received will show your personable abilities to create a great dining environment. Not to mention, greeting the hiring manager by name or showing your connection to the restaurant’s mission in your cover letter adds yet another example of how you personalize experiences.
• Sharing your technical skills in restaurant technology, such as POS systems, or how you utilize cooking techniques will also show that you can perform effectively on the job. Review each job description to emphasize essential skills they’re seeking, such as preparing baked goods for a restaurant with an extensive dessert menu.
• Even if you haven’t worked at a restaurant before, you can still add transferable skills to show you have the right abilities. For example, if you worked at a grocery store, you may have picked up some food safety and customer service skills that will transfer well. You could also use achievements from your education, like receiving a great score on a project during a cooking class.
• While you’re probably passionate about adding artistic garnishes to dishes or having great customer interactions, you don’t want to provide too many details that lose a hiring manager’s attention. A one-page restaurant cover letter will be the ideal length. If you’re running long, prompt ChatGPT to condense your cover letter .

You should always submit a cover letter with your resume and application, even if the restaurant lists it as optional. It’ll help you stand out by relating to their mission and the specific customer and food service skills they seek. 

Restaurants are fast-paced, which means hiring managers review applications quickly. Therefore, you should keep your cover letter to a single page. It’ll help emphasize key skills, like food handling and kitchen safety, stand out. 

The best way to optimize the tone of your restaurant cover letter is to try to match the job description’s tone. For instance, if you’re applying to a family-friendly restaurant with an energetic tone, matching that would show how you fit in with their culture. You could even mention how you’ll bring friendly and positive service with a smile while answering all customer questions. 

Restaurant Cover Letter Examples (Template & 20+ Tips)

Create a standout restaurant cover letter with our online platform. browse professional templates for all levels and specialties. land your dream role today.

Are you passionate about food and hospitality? Do you have a keen eye for detail and a knack for creating memorable dining experiences? If so, a career in the restaurant industry might be the perfect fit for you. Whether you're applying for a server, chef, or management position, a standout cover letter is essential to catching the attention of potential employers. This guide will walk you through the steps of crafting an impressive cover letter that will make you stand out in the competitive restaurant industry.

We will cover:

• How to write a cover letter, no matter your industry or job title.
• What to put on a cover letter to stand out.
• The top skills employers from every industry want to see.
• How to build a cover letter fast with our professional Cover Letter Builder .
• Why you should use a cover letter template

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Restaurant Cover Letter Sample

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to apply for the position of a Restaurant Manager at your esteemed establishment. With over 10 years of experience in the hospitality industry, I am confident in my ability to contribute to the success of your restaurant.

During my career, I have had the opportunity to work in a variety of high-volume restaurants, where I have honed my skills in managing staff, creating efficient workflows, and ensuring exceptional customer service. I am particularly proud of my ability to motivate and lead teams to achieve and exceed goals, resulting in increased customer satisfaction and profitability.

One of my greatest strengths is my ability to create and implement strategic marketing and promotional campaigns that drive foot traffic and increase revenue. I am also adept at analyzing financial data and making informed decisions to optimize the restaurant's performance.

In addition to my operational and managerial skills, I am also passionate about creating a positive and inclusive work environment. I believe that a happy and well-trained staff is essential for delivering exceptional service, and I prioritize ongoing training and development for all team members.

I am drawn to the opportunity at your restaurant because of its reputation for excellence in both cuisine and service. I am confident that my hands-on approach, attention to detail, and commitment to quality align with the values of your establishment. I am eager to bring my expertise to your team and contribute to the continued success of your restaurant.

Thank you for considering my application. I am looking forward to the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to your restaurant in more detail. Please find my resume attached for your review.

Why Do you Need a Restaurant Cover Letter?

• Highlight your qualifications: A restaurant cover letter allows you to outline your relevant skills and experience, showcasing why you are the perfect fit for the role.
• Show your passion for the industry: Your cover letter provides a platform to express your enthusiasm for the restaurant industry and your dedication to delivering exceptional customer service.
• Personalize your application: A well-crafted cover letter allows you to tailor your application to a specific restaurant, demonstrating your understanding of their brand and values.
• Create a strong first impression: Your cover letter serves as your introduction to a potential employer, so it's an opportunity to make a lasting impression and stand out from other applicants.
• Explain any career gaps or transitions: If you have any gaps in your employment history or are transitioning to a new role in the restaurant industry, a cover letter can provide context and address any potential concerns.

A Few Important Rules To Keep In Mind

• Address the hiring manager by name, if possible.
• Use a professional greeting, such as "Dear [Hiring Manager's Name]" or "To Whom it May Concern."
• Start with a strong opening paragraph that introduces yourself and explains why you are interested in the restaurant position.
• Highlight any relevant experience or skills that make you a strong candidate for the role.
• Explain why you are specifically interested in working at the restaurant, whether it's because of the menu, the atmosphere, or the company's values.
• Show enthusiasm and passion for the restaurant industry and the opportunity to contribute to the team.
• End with a polite closing, such as "Sincerely" or "Best regards," and sign off with your full name.
• Include your contact information, such as your phone number and email address, at the end of the cover letter.

What's The Best Structure For Restaurant Cover Letters?

After creating an impressive Restaurant resume , the next step is crafting a compelling cover letter to accompany your job applications. It's essential to remember that your cover letter should maintain a formal tone and follow a recommended structure. But what exactly does this structure entail, and what key elements should be included in a Restaurant cover letter? Let's explore the guidelines and components that will make your cover letter stand out.

Key Components For Restaurant Cover Letters:

• Your contact information, including the date of writing
• The recipient's details, such as the company's name and the name of the addressee
• A professional greeting or salutation, like "Dear Mr. Levi,"
• An attention-grabbing opening statement to captivate the reader's interest
• A concise paragraph explaining why you are an excellent fit for the role
• Another paragraph highlighting why the position aligns with your career goals and aspirations
• A closing statement that reinforces your enthusiasm and suitability for the role
• A complimentary closing, such as "Regards" or "Sincerely," followed by your name
• An optional postscript (P.S.) to add a brief, impactful note or mention any additional relevant information.

Cover Letter Header

A header in a cover letter should typically include the following information:

• Your Full Name: Begin with your first and last name, written in a clear and legible format.
• Contact Information: Include your phone number, email address, and optionally, your mailing address. Providing multiple methods of contact ensures that the hiring manager can reach you easily.
• Date: Add the date on which you are writing the cover letter. This helps establish the timeline of your application.

It's important to place the header at the top of the cover letter, aligning it to the left or center of the page. This ensures that the reader can quickly identify your contact details and know when the cover letter was written.

Cover Letter Greeting / Salutation

A greeting in a cover letter should contain the following elements:

• Personalized Salutation: Address the hiring manager or the specific recipient of the cover letter by their name. If the name is not mentioned in the job posting or you are unsure about the recipient's name, it's acceptable to use a general salutation such as "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear [Company Name] Recruiting Team."
• Professional Tone: Maintain a formal and respectful tone throughout the greeting. Avoid using overly casual language or informal expressions.
• Correct Spelling and Title: Double-check the spelling of the recipient's name and ensure that you use the appropriate title (e.g., Mr., Ms., Dr., or Professor) if applicable. This shows attention to detail and professionalism.

For example, a suitable greeting could be "Dear Ms. Johnson," or "Dear Hiring Manager," depending on the information available. It's important to tailor the greeting to the specific recipient to create a personalized and professional tone for your cover letter.

Cover Letter Introduction

An introduction for a cover letter should capture the reader's attention and provide a brief overview of your background and interest in the position. Here's how an effective introduction should look:

• Opening Statement: Start with a strong opening sentence that immediately grabs the reader's attention. Consider mentioning your enthusiasm for the job opportunity or any specific aspect of the company or organization that sparked your interest.
• Brief Introduction: Provide a concise introduction of yourself and mention the specific position you are applying for. Include any relevant background information, such as your current role, educational background, or notable achievements that are directly related to the position.
• Connection to the Company: Demonstrate your knowledge of the company or organization and establish a connection between your skills and experiences with their mission, values, or industry. Showcasing your understanding and alignment with their goals helps to emphasize your fit for the role.
• Engaging Hook: Consider including a compelling sentence or two that highlights your unique selling points or key qualifications that make you stand out from other candidates. This can be a specific accomplishment, a relevant skill, or an experience that demonstrates your value as a potential employee.
• Transition to the Body: Conclude the introduction by smoothly transitioning to the main body of the cover letter, where you will provide more detailed information about your qualifications, experiences, and how they align with the requirements of the position.

By following these guidelines, your cover letter introduction will make a strong first impression and set the stage for the rest of your application.

Cover Letter Body

I am writing to express my strong interest in the [Restaurant Name] Restaurant [position] position at your establishment. With over [number] years of experience in the food and beverage industry, I am confident in my ability to contribute to the success of your team.

• Introduction: Begin by introducing yourself and expressing your interest in the position.
• Qualifications: Highlight your relevant experience, skills, and achievements in the industry. This may include previous restaurant employment, culinary training, customer service expertise, and any other relevant qualifications.
• Passion for Hospitality: Share your passion for providing exceptional service to guests and creating memorable dining experiences.
• Fit for the Team: Explain how your personality, work ethic, and values align with those of the restaurant and its team members.
• Thank You: Conclude your letter by expressing gratitude for the opportunity to apply and reiterate your enthusiasm for joining the team.

I am excited about the opportunity to bring my dedication, skills, and passion for hospitality to [Restaurant Name]. Thank you for considering my application.

[Your Name]

Complimentary Close

The conclusion and signature of a cover letter provide a final opportunity to leave a positive impression and invite further action. Here's how the conclusion and signature of a cover letter should look:

• Summary of Interest: In the conclusion paragraph, summarize your interest in the position and reiterate your enthusiasm for the opportunity to contribute to the organization or school. Emphasize the value you can bring to the role and briefly mention your key qualifications or unique selling points.
• Appreciation and Gratitude: Express appreciation for the reader's time and consideration in reviewing your application. Thank them for the opportunity to be considered for the position and acknowledge any additional materials or documents you have included, such as references or a portfolio.
• Call to Action: Conclude the cover letter with a clear call to action. Indicate your availability for an interview or express your interest in discussing the opportunity further. Encourage the reader to contact you to schedule a meeting or provide any additional information they may require.
• Complimentary Closing: Choose a professional and appropriate complimentary closing to end your cover letter, such as "Sincerely," "Best Regards," or "Thank you." Ensure the closing reflects the overall tone and formality of the letter.
• Signature: Below the complimentary closing, leave space for your handwritten signature. Sign your name in ink using a legible and professional style. If you are submitting a digital or typed cover letter, you can simply type your full name.
• Typed Name: Beneath your signature, type your full name in a clear and readable font. This allows for easy identification and ensures clarity in case the handwritten signature is not clear.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Restaurant Cover Letter

When crafting a cover letter, it's essential to present yourself in the best possible light to potential employers. However, there are common mistakes that can hinder your chances of making a strong impression. By being aware of these pitfalls and avoiding them, you can ensure that your cover letter effectively highlights your qualifications and stands out from the competition. In this article, we will explore some of the most common mistakes to avoid when writing a cover letter, providing you with valuable insights and practical tips to help you create a compelling and impactful introduction that captures the attention of hiring managers. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your career journey, understanding these mistakes will greatly enhance your chances of success in the job application process. So, let's dive in and discover how to steer clear of these common missteps and create a standout cover letter that gets you noticed by potential employers.

• Not customizing the cover letter for the specific restaurant
• Not demonstrating knowledge and understanding of the restaurant's cuisine and style
• Being too generic and not showcasing your personality or passion for food
• Not highlighting relevant experience or skills that are applicable to the restaurant's needs
• Focusing solely on your own needs and not addressing how you can benefit the restaurant
• Not proofreading for grammar and spelling errors
• Not following the application instructions or including all required materials

Key Takeaways For a Restaurant Cover Letter

• Show enthusiasm for the restaurant and its cuisine
• Highlight relevant experience and skills
• Express commitment to providing excellent customer service
• Illustrate willingness to work as part of a team
• Emphasize flexibility and ability to handle fast-paced environments