Banquet Bartender

Who We Are:

Vendador is a luxury private dining company located in Chicago, Illinois. An exclusive culinary experience that transcends the traditional restaurant setting, Vendador offers tailor-made tasting menus for dining that redefines special events catering; it's a moveable feast, an intimate gourmet journey that can materialize anywhere. Founded in 2021 by Chef Francis Pascal, our mission is to curate joyous core memories by importing an entire fine dining ecosystem to clients, transforming any space into a dining destination. Since our inception, Vendador has become the epitome of personalized culinary experiences in Chicago.

Events range vastly in size, but average guest count is 8-30 with 6-10 courses. We curate events up to 200 guests.

We have on average, 3 to 6 events per week and are looking for candidates with the flexibility and commitment for at least 1 to 2 events per week, but no less than 3 per month. Commitment, communication, and time management are values we do not compromise on.

Our team consists of highly experienced and passionate hospitality professionals who have worked in these Chicago establishments: Alinea, Roister, Boka, Smyth, Oriole, Valhalla, The Loyalist, Momotaro, and more.

Who You Are:

We are now hiring Bartenders to join our service team. As a critical member of the team, a successful Bartender will prioritize positivity, passion, and flexibility. You must be comfortable serving food, holding 3 plates and wine throughout our tasting menu experiences, as all events have an element of cuisine. Priority will be given to candidates with fine dining, Michelin restaurant, and craft cocktail bar experience.

Qualified individuals should possess exceptional attention to detail, immaculate presentation, and a genuine passion for hospitality excellence.

You must be charismatic, enjoy conversing with clients, and have confidence engaging with guests in intimate environments. We expect all bartenders to make our clients feel like friends, and no event is transactional. This level of authentic hospitality, professionalism and a desire to connect is required. We love engaging with our guests with joy, kindness, and thoughtfulness.

Reliable transportation is essential as you must be able to get yourself to and from events in and around Chicago and the suburbs. Extensive wine, spirits, and cocktail knowledge is required.

What You Can Expect:

• Prepare and serve craft cocktails from our seasonal menu, pour wine, and NA beverages at private events.
• Create genuine connections with guests, making them feel comfortable and valued throughout their experience
• Coordinate seamlessly with kitchen and service teams to maintain proper flow throughout multi-course tasting menus
• Maintain comprehensive knowledge of spirits, wines, cocktail techniques, and beverage pairings that complement our culinary offerings
• Educate guests on cocktail ingredients, preparation methods, and flavor profiles with confidence and expertise
• Anticipate guests' beverage needs and provide proactive, refined service throughout the dining experience
• Manage bar setup, inventory, and breakdown to ensure flawless execution
• All team members at Vendador help with every aspect of the event, and all bartenders are required to serve food, unload the van before the event, and breakdown and load up at the end of the night. Ability to lift heavy boxes is required.

Compensation: Hourly pay based on experience, with opportunities for advancement. Pay starts at $22 per hour and is based on experience.

Team Culture: Work alongside Michelin-trained professionals committed to culinary and service excellence

If you feel you meet the above requirements and are passionate about delivering extraordinary dining experiences, please respond with a copy of your resume and a cover letter detailing why you would be a great addition to our team. We look forward to hearing from you.

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in craft cocktail bars, fine dining, or ultra-fine dining beverage programs preferred
• Extensive knowledge of spirits, wine, cocktails, and beverage service techniques
• Highly professional demeanor and excellent communication skills
• Ability to lift and carry heavy objects, including kegs, ice, and equipment
• Reliable transportation and ability to drive oneself to and from events in the Chicagoland area and suburbs
• Flexibility to work daytimes, evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed
• Event times vary but average call time is 4pm and end times range from 9:30p to midnight
• BASSET certification or ability to obtain upon hire

• Competitive pay
• Flexibility
• A supportive and dynamic team environment
• The chance to be part of unique and exclusive dining events
• Opportunity to create custom beverage programs for discerning clients

Application Process: If you are a dedicated hospitality professional with a passion for fine dining and craft cocktails, we invite you to apply. Please submit your resume and a brief cover letter outlining your relevant experience.

Vendador Private Dining is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Join Vendador and be part of creating extraordinary dining experiences!