Mercadito is currently seeking a Bartender/ Server that can complete both service roles during the shift. 

Opened in 2010, Mercadito splashed into the hospitality scene in the heart of Chicago’s River North neighborhood at 108 W. Kinzie St, with the goal to create an upscale Mexican restaurant that caters to the tastes of those who crave elevated authentic Mexican cuisine, specialty tequila and mezcal libations.

Being voted a top Mexican restaurant in Chicago, Mercadito is the city’s go-to for fresh ingredients and menu items made from scratch such as their homemade tortillas and seasonal guacamole; focusing on consistently delivering bold flavor and authentic recipes.

The ideal spot to start off an evening of long lasting memories due to its festive cocktails and shareable plates. With a quaint patio, front lounge, and main dining room with garage windows for an indoor-outdoor feel, Mercadito offers a spacious space for guests to relax and enjoy a memorable experience while having the privacy and space to spread out.

Essential Functions

• Prepare and serve beverages to guests according to recipes and contracts
• Walk guests through the menu to answer any questions and assist with any necessary accommodations for allergies and dietary restrictions.
• Listen intently to guests and be aware of body language so as to properly tailor the service experience to those guests.
• Check back with guests about each dish and beverage, as well as when beverages are in need of being refreshed.
• Stock/restock appropriate areas of the bar with alcohol, glassware, ice and supplies
• Available to work a variety of hours, days and shifts, including weekends
• Effectively service a full bar top, cocktail station, and dining room orders
• Safely and effectively use and operate all necessary tools and equipment, including knives and blenders
• Ability to effectively communicate in order to perform and follow job requirements in written and spoken direction
• Ability to multi-task calmly and effectively in a busy, stressful environment
• Work in a confined, crowded space of variable noise and temperature levels
• Able to move and lift up to 10 pounds, frequently move and/or lift up to 25 pounds, and occasionally move and/or lift up to 50 pounds
• Ability to stand and walk for an entire shift and move safely through all areas of the restaurant, which may include stairs, uneven or slick surfaces

Key Responsibilities and Duties

• Ensure the overall guest experience exceeds expectations and anticipate guests' needs
• Greet guests with a warm, sincere smile
• Use good judgement when dealing with guest challenges and respond to guest needs with patience and courtesy
• Manually wash and sanitize glassware using a three compartment sink
• Account for and maintain the security of all bar stock and inventory
• Responsible for the security and reconciliation of the bar cash drawer
• Ability to recognize an intoxicated guest, refuse to overserve guests and seek out management with any concerns about a guest that appears intoxicated
• Accurately record and account for all items ordered, process payments, and account for and balance all sales/receipts in compliance with restaurant policies and procedures
• Understand and respond knowledgeably to questions about the restaurant and menu
• Use sales techniques and present and encourage current promotions to guests
• Follow all steps of service
• Understand and follow the food allergy procedure and special orders/restrictions
• Proficiency in the use and operation of all necessary tools and equipment, including the POS system and Frequent Diner, Gift Card and Credit Card terminals
• Comply with all safety and sanitation guidelines and procedures
• Successfully complete alcohol awareness training
• Follow all rules, policies, procedures and conditions of employment, including those outlined in the Employee Handbook
• Get along well with others and be a team player
• Other duties will be assigned as needed