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Managing a restaurant is no easy feat. It takes a seamless mix of leadership skills, organization, business sense and customer service chops to create a restaurant environment that runs efficiently and leaves guests happy and satisfied. With such a long list of responsibilities on your shoulders, your cover letter shouldn’t add to your stress.
Our guide will help you write a restaurant manager cover letter quickly, so you can focus on the important stuff.
Our guide includes:
- A sample cover letter designed to showcase restaurant management skills.
- A customizable cover letter template that you can copy, paste and edit as needed.
- Expert tips designed to help you build a cover letter that stands out.
- Key points to remember as you embark on your job search journey.
Not sure where to start your cover letter? Our Cover Letter Builder is the perfect resource to help you conquer that blank page! It provides detailed content suggestions and a customizable template tailored for restaurant managers, so you can apply with confidence!
Restaurant manager cover letter example
What makes this a great sample cover letter for a restaurant manager?
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Professional style
A professional style with a neat layout gives this cover letter a sense of polish.
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Measurable data
Using numbers to quantify past successes conveys this candidate’s ability to achieve concrete results.
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Emphasis on leadership
Focusing on leadership skills makes this candidate feel like a competent manager and a devoted mentor.
Cover letter template for a restaurant manager
Need a launchpad to start off your restaurant manager cover letter? Copy and paste this template so you can edit and customize it to suit your needs.
Marie Howard
Reno, NV 89507
555-555-5555
example@example.com
Oct. 6, 2024
Barbara Johnson, Owner
MacKenzie River Pizza Grill & Pub
1550 S Pavilion Center Dr
Reno, NV 89507
Dear Ms. Johnson,
I am writing to express my interest in the restaurant manager position at MacKenzie River Pizza Grill & Pub in Reno, NV. With over 15 years of experience in restaurant management and a proven track record of improving operational efficiency and customer satisfaction, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the success of your establishment.
As a restaurant manager at Morton’s Steakhouse, I achieved several significant milestones. I implemented targeted marketing strategies and optimized menu offerings, resulting in a substantial increase in revenue over two years. By training staff on customer service best practices and establishing a feedback loop with patrons, I enhanced our customer satisfaction scores. Additionally, I streamlined inventory management and reduced waste, leading to a notable reduction in food costs without compromising quality. My commitment to staff development also improved retention rates, fostering a motivated and skilled team.
I am particularly drawn to MacKenzie River Pizza Grill & Pub because of its commitment to providing a unique and memorable dining experience. Your focus on using fresh, high-quality ingredients and creating a welcoming atmosphere aligns with my own values and management philosophy. I am eager to bring my experience in managing high-volume restaurants and my passion for exceptional service to your team.
Reno is my hometown, and I am deeply invested in the community. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to contribute to a local favorite like MacKenzie River Pizza Grill & Pub and help it thrive. I am confident that my background and skills make me an ideal candidate for this position, and I am excited about the prospect of working with your talented team.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my experience and vision align with the goals of MacKenzie River Pizza Grill & Pub. Please contact me at 555-555-5555 or via email at example@example.com to schedule an interview.
Sincerely,
Marie Howard
Format your restaurant manager cover letter
Your cover letter is an important opportunity to make a first impression. It should follow basic formatting standards and present you as a polished and detail-oriented professional.
Here are some formatting tips to help you build a persuasive restaurant manager cover letter:
- Font style and size: Pick a professional font like Arial or Calibri and keep the font size between 10-12 points to make a letter that’s easy to read without squinting.
- Spacing: Consistent spacing ensures your letter is both uniform and easy to read. Use line spacing between 1.15 and 1.5.
- Margins and alignment: Align your text to the left and maintain 1-inch margins so your letter is consistent and neat-looking.
Select a restaurant manager cover letter template
Your letter should immediately engage the reader. Pick something professional, stylish and simple to act as a canvas to display your achievements.
The best cover letter templates are straightforward, professional and focused on accentuating your skills and experiences.
Check out our array of options for cover letter templates and pick one that matches your resume template for a unified application package.
How to write a cover letter for a restaurant manager
As a restaurant manager, you know that when you’re hiring staff, a cover letter is a great way to get a sense of a candidate’s personality and commitment level to the role. This applies to managers too!
Writing a cover letter proves that you’re interested in the role and willing to put in the work to communicate your qualifications. Our step-by-step guide will help you build a strong cover letter with ease.
Step 1
Review the restaurant manager job description
Start by tailoring your cover letter for the specific restaurant manager position you’re interested in. Personalizing your letter to the specific restaurant shows interest and initiative.
A customized letter will also help you pass through the applicant tracking systems (ATS) used by employers. These systems scan for job-related keywords, so incorporating keywords from the job description will help you succeed in landing an interview.
Step 2
Include your contact information in the header
The primary purpose of your cover letter’s header is to make it easy for employers to contact you. It should include:
- Your name.
- City and state.
- Phone number.
- Email address.
- A link to your LinkedIn, professional website or portfolio.
Use an email address that’s both professional and matches the one on your resume. Using your name and initials usually works best.
Step 3
Address the hiring manager by name
Personalize your cover letter by addressing the restaurant owner or general manager directly. If the job listing doesn’t provide a contact name, research the hiring manager’s details. This demonstrates initiative and a strong interest in the role.
If you can’t find a specific name, “Dear Hiring Manager” is an appropriate and respectful alternative.
Step 4
Introduce yourself in the first paragraph
Kick off your cover letter with a strong introduction that immediately showcases your key qualifications. Whether you’re new to the field or a veteran of the dining room, the opening of your letter should introduce your most relevant experience and skills.
Example opening paragraph for a new restaurant manager:
I am thrilled to apply for the restaurant manager position at [Restaurant Name], as seen in [source]. With a solid background in hospitality and customer service, I am eager to bring my enthusiasm and dedication to creating exceptional dining experiences to your team.
Example opening paragraph for an experienced restaurant manager:
I am excited to express my interest in the restaurant manager role at [Restaurant Name]. With over [number] years of experience in managing successful dining establishments, I have a proven track record of enhancing customer satisfaction and streamlining operations, making me an ideal candidate for your team.
Keep your opening paragraph short and to the point. Emphasize the basic details that make you a great candidate.
Step 5
Explain why you’re the best candidate for the role
The body paragraphs of your restaurant manager cover letter provide the perfect opportunity to describe why you’re the best choice for the position. Detail your restaurant management track record and describe your achievements using specific results.
Focus on:
- Detailing relevant experience: Share your experiences in restaurant management, such as improving customer service, streamlining operations or enhancing the dining atmosphere. Include specific examples of initiatives you’ve led that increased efficiency, customer satisfaction or profitability.
- Highlighting your skill set: As a restaurant manager, your cover letter should highlight a mix of hard and soft skills. Describe instances where you’ve applied your knowledge of restaurant operations and your interpersonal skills to lead your team and create memorable guest experiences.
- Addressing unique qualifications or experiences: If you have specialized training, such as hospitality management certifications or expertise in a particular cuisine, be sure to spotlight these. Discuss the tangible outcomes of your previous roles and projects.
Example body paragraphs for a restaurant manager cover letter:
During my tenure at [Restaurant Name], I spearheaded a customer service improvement initiative that resulted in a 40% increase in guest satisfaction scores. My approach, which included staff training and revised customer feedback procedures, significantly boosted repeat customer visits.
In another role at [Restaurant Name], I managed a major kitchen redesign project, which enhanced operational flow and increased meal output by 25%. My strategic planning and vendor negotiation skills ensured the project was completed on time and under budget, leading to higher profitability.
Step 6
Write your cover letter closing
Conclude your restaurant manager cover letter with a closing paragraph that:
- Expresses your enthusiasm for the position.
- Demonstrates your readiness to handle the responsibilities of the role.
- Invites further discussion in an interview.
- Thanks the reader for considering your application.
Example closing paragraph for a restaurant manager cover letter:
I am excited about the opportunity to bring my leadership skills and passion for hospitality to [Restaurant Name]. I am confident in my ability to contribute to your team and enhance the dining experience you offer. I look forward to the possibility of discussing how my background, skills and enthusiasm for culinary excellence align with your restaurant’s goals. Thank you for considering my application.
Step 7
Sign off appropriately
End your cover letter with a professional signoff, such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards,” followed by your name.
Add a matching resume
Before sending your cover letter, make sure it complements your resume. If you need to update or create your resume, do this first! Building a professional resume that outlines your management experience and skills will give you a strong launchpad to use for your cover letter. Check out some resume examples from successful restaurant managers to see how your letter might expand on the content of your resume.
If you’re not sure where to start, our Resume Builder can help you get started on building an organized and neatly formatted resume quickly. Choose a resume template that complements your cover letter for a cohesive application package.
Key takeaways
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Explore restaurant manager cover letter examples
Take a look at some restaurant manager cover letter examples to get inspired for your own application. Seeing how other professionals in the hospitality industry build their letters can give you a solid foundation to get started.
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Highlight essential skills for a restaurant manager
Focus on the core skills necessary for a restaurant manager, such as expertise in operational management, team leadership and customer relationship management. Remember to include soft skills like effective communication, problem-solving and a commitment to service excellence.
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Choose an appropriate restaurant manager cover letter template
Pick out a cover letter template that reflects your professionalism and personality. A straightforward template with a clean and organized layout is the ideal way to showcase your qualifications.
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Keep your introductory paragraph concise
Start your letter by engaging the reader. Introduce yourself and highlight your most vital skills, your passion for the hospitality industry and your interest in the specific restaurant.
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Compose detailed body paragraphs
In the body of your cover letter, provide specific examples from your experience as a restaurant manager. Refer to the job listing as a guide and use relevant keywords and numerical figures to align your skills with the role and showcase the impact of your past work.
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Ensure appropriate formatting
Your cover letter should show that you have the attention to detail necessary to run an efficient dining room. Use professional fonts, maintain consistent margins and spacing and proofread your document to ensure that there are no distracting errors.
Resources to help prepare for your interview
Last Updated: July 23, 2024
Hailey Brophy is an experienced writer with a diverse career in digital publication. She is passionate about using her unique skills and experiences to help job seekers find the information that they need to succeed.
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