Mercadito is currently seeking Servers! Mercadito River North first opened in 2010 in the heart of Chicago’s River North neighborhood at 108 W. Kinzie St, with the goal of creating an upscale Mexican restaurant centered on elevated, authentic cuisine and specialty tequila and mezcal libations. Mercadito Lincoln Park is scheduled to open in April, expanding the Mercadito experience into a second Chicago location.
As a top Mexican restaurant in Chicago, Mercadito is known for fresh ingredients and scratch-made menu items such as homemade tortillas and seasonal guacamole, with a focus on consistently delivering bold flavor and authentic recipes. Our spaces are designed for memorable experiences—festive cocktails, shareable plates, and a lively hospitality-driven atmosphere.
Hiring Timeline: With the Lincoln Park opening approaching, our goal is to begin bringing team members on in March to support both Mercadito River North and the opening team for Mercadito Lincoln Park.
Essential Functions
- Prepare and serve beverages to guests according to recipes and standards
- Walk guests through the menu, answer questions, and assist with accommodations for allergies and dietary restrictions
- Listen intently and read guest body language to tailor the service experience
- Check back with guests on each dish and beverage and refresh beverages as needed
- Stock/restock appropriate bar areas 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
- Communicate effectively in written and spoken directions
- Multi-task calmly and effectively in a busy, high-volume environment
- Work in a confined, crowded space with variable noise and temperature levels
- Able to move and lift up to 10 lbs regularly, up to 25 lbs frequently, and up to 50 lbs occasionally
- Ability to stand and walk for an entire shift and move safely through all areas of the restaurant (including 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 judgment when addressing guest challenges; respond 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
- Recognize intoxicated guests, refuse service when appropriate, and involve management with any concerns
- Accurately record orders, process payments, and balance sales/receipts in compliance with restaurant procedures
- Understand and respond knowledgeably to questions about the restaurant and menu
- Use sales techniques and present/encourage current promotions
- Follow all steps of service
- Understand and follow food allergy procedures and special order/restriction protocols
- Proficiency with required tools and systems, including POS, 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 in the Employee Handbook
- Maintain strong teamwork and communication across FOH and BOH
- Other duties as assigned
