This is a pivotal and exciting time to be part of the Maplewood Brewing Company team! With the recent expansion of our lounge and our transformation into a full-service restaurant, we’re looking for passionate, team-oriented professionals to help us deliver unforgettable hospitality and keep raising the bar in Logan Square.
The Expo / Food Runner acts as the critical link between the kitchen and the dining room. This position ensures that every dish leaving the kitchen meets the restaurant’s standards of quality, presentation, and timing. This role is essential in ensuring our guests receive timely, beautiful, and accurate dishes—every single time. The Expo / Food Runner coordinates with chefs, bar staff and other support staff to maintain smooth and efficient service—especially during peak hours.
Key Responsibilities
- Ensure food presentation, garnish, and plating meet Maplewood standards
- Collaborate closely with the Chef and Expo line to maintain efficient service flow
- Review each plate for accuracy, presentation, and temperature before it leaves the pass.
- Ensure correct garnishes, sauces, and accompaniments are added to each dish.
- Organize tickets and prioritize orders based on dining room activity and timing.
- Communicate clearly with servers and runners regarding table numbers, modifications, and special requests.
- Support chefs by keeping the pass clean, organized, and stocked.
- Assist in managing ticket flow and pacing to maintain consistent service speed.
- Notify management or chef immediately of any issues, delays, or guest allergies.
- Help maintain communication and teamwork between kitchen and floor staff.
- Confirm allergy and special requests on tickets before running dishes
- Communicate clearly and professionally with both guests and team members
- Assist in creating a positive, team-focused environment across all service areas
- Greet guests warmly and answer basic menu questions with confidence and enthusiasm
- Follow all health, safety, and sanitation procedures
- Support restaurant operations with flexibility and a great attitude
What We’re Looking For
1+ years of experience as a Food Runner or Expo in a systems-based, full-service, high-volume restaurantMust be 21 Years of ageFamiliarity with high level service standardsProfessional and friendly communication style with both guests and coworkersComfortable standing, walking, and carrying up to 25–50 lbs during long shiftsStrong multitasking skills and the ability to remain calm under pressureTeam player with a flexible schedule, including nights, weekends, and holidaysMust have Food Handler and BASSET certificationsPerks of Working at Maplewood Brewing Company
Opportunity to grow with a rapidly evolving hospitality brandWork in a fun, fast-paced, and guest-focused environmentStaff discounts on food, beer, spirits and merchandiseup to 4 cases of beer per monthCollaborate with a highly acclaimed passionate culinary and brewery teamBe part of one of Chicago’s most beloved neighborhood breweriesIf you're passionate about hospitality, love working in high-energy environments, and want to be part of a growing team during a major expansion—we want to hear from you.
Apply now and help us bring the next chapter of Maplewood to life!