Server

Mercadito is hiring Servers 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 .

Essential Functions

Deliver a high standard of hospitality and service 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, 25 lbs frequently, and up to 50 lbs occasionally

Key Responsibilities and Duties

Provide warm, attentive hospitality and create a memorable guest experience

Guide guests through the menu, including food, beverages, and agave-based cocktails

Demonstrate strong knowledge of Mercadito’s food, beverage, and tequila selections

Take accurate orders and enter them into the POS system efficiently

Maintain organized sections and ensure tables are properly set and reset

Monitor guest satisfaction and respond to requests with urgency and professionalism

Deliver food and beverages according to restaurant service standards

Communicate effectively with the kitchen, bar, and support staff

Support allergy and dietary accommodations using established procedures

Maintain cleanliness and organization of service stations and dining areas

Follow opening, running, and closing procedures consistently

Assist teammates to maintain smooth service during busy periods

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

Compensation Details

Compensation: Hourly ($12.62) plus tips

Benefits & Perks: Dining discounts

Required Skills

Strong hospitality and guest engagement skills

Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-volume environment

Strong communication and teamwork

Attention to detail and service consistency

Ability to multitask and stay organized under pressure

Knowledge of food and beverage service standards

POS familiarity and order accuracy

Understanding of responsible alcohol service

Knowledge of dietary restrictions and guest accommodations

Strong time management and problem-solving skills

Physical stamina and endurance

Ability to follow instructions, procedures, and service standards

Additional Skills

Customer Service Orientation

Adaptability to Changing Environments

Ability to Work Collaboratively in a Team Setting

Conflict Resolution Skills

Ability to Handle Stressful Situations

Attention to Safety and Sanitation Practices

Organizational Skills

Ability to Learn Quickly

Interpersonal Skills

Ability to Engage with Diverse Clientele

Flexibility in Scheduling

Commitment to Continuous Improvement