Job Details
Mercadito is hiring Hosts for both of our Chicago locations: Mercadito River North (108 W. Kinzie St.) and our new Mercadito Lincoln Park (2423 N. Lincoln Ave., opening April).
Mercadito is an upscale, high-energy Mexican restaurant known for locally sourced ingredients, made-from-scratch execution, and hospitality-driven service. Our menu features bold, authentic flavors, seasonal guacamoles, scratch-made salsas, chef-driven plates, and a tequila-forward cocktail program, all served in a lively, high-volume environment.
Hiring Timeline
With the Lincoln Park opening approaching, we are currently onboarding team members to support Mercadito River North and help build the opening team for Mercadito Lincoln Park.
Applicants may be considered for River North, Lincoln Park based on experience and availability.
Position
Host
Essential Functions
Deliver a high standard of hospitality and execution in a fast-paced, high-volume environment
Maintain professionalism, urgency, and attention to detail throughout each shift
Communicate clearly with teammates and leadership to support smooth service
Follow all safety, sanitation, and cleanliness standards
Work a variety of hours, days, and shifts, including weekends and peak periods
Stand and walk for the duration of a shift and move safely through all work areas
Lift and move items up to 10 lbs regularly, up to 25 lbs frequently, and up to 50 lbs occasionally
Key Responsibilities and Duties
Greet guests warmly and create a strong first impression upon arrival
Manage reservations, waitlists, and guest flow with accuracy and professionalism
Escort guests to tables and communicate table status effectively with managers and service staff
Maintain awareness of dining room pacing, seating rotation, and service levels throughout the shift
Answer phones, respond to guest inquiries, and assist with reservation-related questions
Support guest needs with confidence, professionalism, and a hospitality-first mindset
Maintain cleanliness and organization of the host stand, entrance, and surrounding guest-facing areas
Assist with menu distribution, guest communications, and special requests as directed
Communicate clearly with servers, bartenders, bussers, runners, and managers to support smooth service
Help manage high-volume arrival periods while maintaining composure and attention to detail
Support allergy and guest accommodation procedures using established guidelines
Follow opening, running, and closing host procedures with consistency
Team Standards
Maintain strong teamwork and communication across the restaurant
Follow all policies and procedures in the Employee Handbook
Comply with all safety, sanitation, and cleanliness guidelines
Perform other duties as assigned
Benefits & Perks
Dining discounts
Required Skills
Strong work ethic and reliability
Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-volume environment
Strong hospitality and guest engagement skills
Clear communication and teamwork
Attention to detail and consistency
Ability to multitask and stay organized under pressure
Reservation and waitlist management skills
Professional phone and in-person communication
Knowledge of guest accommodations and service flow
Strong time management and problem-solving skills
Physical stamina and endurance
Ability to follow instructions, procedures, and service standards
