Host

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