Required Years of Experience
2 years
Job Details
Tarra & Sura, a Thai fine dining restaurant and cocktail lounge opening soon in River North, is seeking to add a skilled Food Runner to our opening team. The restaurant will feature a luxurious 100 seat dining room on the ground floor, and a swanky 60 seat cocktail lounge hidden below serving high-touch, experimental cocktails and thoughtful small bites.
Tarra is seeking a polished, knowledgeable, and highly motivated Food Runner to join our team. This is more than a traditional food-running position. Our Food Runners play an important role in delivering the level of hospitality and service that defines the Tarra experience.
The ideal candidate has a strong command of the English language, excellent communication skills, and a genuine desire to learn. Previous fine dining experience is a plus, but we are equally interested in candidates who demonstrate professionalism, curiosity, attention to detail, and a commitment to exceptional hospitality.
Responsibilities
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Deliver food to the dining room accurately, efficiently, and with a high level of care.
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Develop and maintain a deep understanding of Tarra's menu, including ingredients, preparation methods, cooking techniques, allergens, and dietary considerations.
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Confidently explain dishes, ingredients, preparations, and other menu details to guests when appropriate.
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Communicate clearly and professionally with guests, servers, chefs, and management.
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Assist servers in providing attentive, proactive hospitality throughout the guest experience.
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Maintain awareness of the dining room and anticipate guest and team needs.
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Ensure every dish leaving the kitchen meets Tarra's standards for presentation, temperature, accuracy, and quality.
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Assist with table maintenance, clearing, resetting, and other dining room responsibilities as needed.
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Maintain a clean, organized, and polished service environment.
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Communicate guest requests, allergies, and special considerations accurately and promptly.
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Support the entire service team and contribute to a seamless, collaborative dining experience.
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Continuously expand knowledge of food, beverage, service standards, and hospitality.
What We're Looking For
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Excellent command of spoken English and strong communication skills.
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Professional, polished, and personable demeanor.
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Strong attention to detail and ability to retain and communicate detailed menu information.
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Ability to confidently interact with guests in a fine dining environment.
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Genuine interest in food, hospitality, and learning.
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Ability to work calmly and efficiently in a fast-paced service environment.
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Strong teamwork and communication skills.
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Previous fine dining or upscale restaurant experience is preferred but not required.
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Must be dependable, punctual, and committed to maintaining high service standards.
Compensation & Growth
At Tarra, greater responsibility is recognized and rewarded. Our Food Runners take on a more knowledgeable and active role in the guest experience, and that increased responsibility comes with a greater share of tips.
This position offers an opportunity to develop significant food, beverage, service, and hospitality knowledge while working as an integral part of a high-level restaurant team.
If you are someone who takes pride in knowing your craft, communicating with confidence, and creating exceptional experiences for guests, we'd love to meet you.
Benefits:
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Health Benefits
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Paid vacation
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Paid sick time
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Internal dining discounts
Special Consideration:
- Fine Dining experience
- Thai Food knowledge
Compensation Details
Compensation: Hourly ($12.92) plus tips
Benefits & Perks: Health Insurance, Paid Time Off, Dining Discounts
Required Skills
Ability to Collaborate Effectively With Management and Staff
Knowledge of Fine Dining Service Standards
Strong Problem Solving Skills
Ability to Handle Multiple Tasks Simultaneously
Ability to Anticipate Guest Needs
Flexibility in Adapting to Changing Circumstances
Adaptability in a Dynamic Environment
Strong Organizational Skills
Read more
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Bar / Lounge, Fine Dining, Upscale Casual
Tarra is a contemporary Thai restaurant in Chicago’s River North, offering a modern interpretation of Thai cuisine rooted in authentic flavors and traditions.
Led by Chef Namo, the menu draws inspiration from Thailand while bringing a refined, contemporary approach to each dish. Tarra is designed as an elevated dining experience centered around thoughtful food, warm hospitality, and showcasing traditional Thai food recipes.










