Restaurant Manager in Downtown Chicago – Lead a Culinary Landmark & Drive Unforgettable Experiences

Steer the ship of one of Chicago’s most beloved dining destinations. As our Restaurant Manager, you will transform a vibrant team into a cohesive force, ensuring every guest leaves with a story and every plate tells a tale of excellence. This is your chance to blend operational mastery with genuine hospitality in a fast-paced, award-winning environment.

About the Role

You are the heartbeat of our restaurant. Reporting directly to the Ownership/Executive Chef, you will own the entire guest journey and back-of-house rhythm. Your leadership will cultivate a culture where precision meets passion, driving profitability through meticulous cost control while championing an atmosphere where creativity and service excellence flourish. We are not just looking for an operator; we are seeking a culture-builder who can elevate our established reputation to new heights.

Core Responsibilities

• Operational Leadership: Oversee all daily restaurant operations, from front-of-house flow and service standards to kitchen coordination and inventory management. Ensure seamless execution during peak and off-peak hours.
• Team Cultivation & Development: Recruit, train, mentor, and schedule a diverse team of 30+ staff members, including servers, hosts, bartenders, and kitchen porters. Foster a supportive, high-performance environment with clear career pathways.
• Financial Acumen: Manage P&L accountability, including labor cost optimization, inventory control, waste reduction, and weekly reporting. Drive sales through strategic upselling, menu execution, and special event planning.
• Guest Experience Architect: Be the visible leader on the floor, resolving guest concerns with grace and urgency. Curate memorable moments that turn first-time visitors into loyal advocates. Maintain impeccable cleanliness, ambiance, and safety standards (ServSafe certified).
• Vendor & Community Relations: Build strong relationships with suppliers, manage ordering, and represent the restaurant at local community events and industry gatherings.

Requirements

The ideal candidate is a seasoned professional with a proven track record in full-service, high-volume dining.

• Experience: Minimum 5 years of restaurant management experience, with at least 2 years in a managerial role within a similar upscale-casual or fine-dining establishment in a major metropolitan market.
• Skills: Expert-level knowledge of restaurant POS systems (e.g., Toast, OpenTable), inventory software, and MS Office. Mastery of budgeting, forecasting, and labor management. Exceptional interpersonal and conflict-resolution skills.
• Mindset: A relentless focus on quality, a calm demeanor under pressure, and an entrepreneurial spirit. You are data-driven yet people-centric, understanding that great metrics stem from great teams.
• Availability: Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required. Must be legally authorized to work in the United States.

Compensation & Benefits

We believe in compensating top talent generously and investing in their long-term success.

• Salary Range: $55,000 – $75,000 USD/year, commensurate with experience and restaurant performance.
• Bonus Potential: Discretionary quarterly bonus based on achieving operational and financial targets.
• Comprehensive Benefits Package: Including health, dental, and vision insurance after 60 days. 401(k) with company match. Paid time off (PTO) that increases with tenure.
• Growth & Perks: Ongoing professional development budget, tuition reimbursement for hospitality courses, complimentary daily meals, and robust employee discount program. Profit-sharing opportunities may be available for exceptional performance.

Join Our Table

This is more than a job; it’s an opportunity to leave a lasting imprint on Chicago’s culinary scene. If you are ready to lead with purpose, innovate with integrity, and be part of a team that values its people as much as its guests, we want to hear from you.

Please submit your resume and a compelling cover letter detailing your most significant restaurant management achievement and why you are the perfect fit for our team to careers@landmarkrestaurantchicago.com. No phone calls or agency inquiries, please.