Restaurant General Manager

About this position

We are seeking a dynamic and service-driven General Manager to lead the day-to-day operations of a high-volume, upscale neighborhood steakhouse generating approximately $10 million in annual revenue. This role is responsible for ensuring operational excellence across all departments while cultivating a hospitality-first culture that reflects our standards for professionalism, consistency, and guest experience.

The General Manager will oversee all Front-of-House operations while working collaboratively with the Executive Chef and ownership to align service execution with financial performance and long-term strategic goals.

Primary Responsibilities

Leadership & Culture

• Lead, mentor, and develop the restaurant’s management team across FOH, Bar, and Events
• Establish a culture of accountability, teamwork, and high hospitality standards
• Conduct regular performance evaluations and coaching sessions with department managers
• Oversee hiring, onboarding, and retention of hourly and salaried staff
• Serve as the visible leader on the floor during peak service periods

Operational Oversight

• Direct all day-to-day restaurant operations to ensure consistency and efficiency
• Maintain and uphold service standards consistent with an upscale steakhouse environment
• Partner with culinary leadership to ensure alignment between FOH and BOH execution
• Oversee scheduling, service flow, and floor management
• Ensure successful planning and execution of private dining and special events

Financial Management

• Manage labor scheduling to meet targeted labor cost percentages
• Monitor daily sales, weekly financial reports, and departmental KPIs
• Assist ownership with budgeting, forecasting, and cost-containment initiatives
• Maintain accountability for controllable expenses including labor and operating costs
• Work to drive revenue through improved guest experience and operational efficiencies

Guest Experience

• Ensure consistent delivery of exceptional guest service
• Address guest feedback in real time and manage service recovery when needed
• Build and maintain relationships with neighborhood clientele and repeat guests
• Maintain a polished and professional dining room presence

Compliance & Administration

• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and liquor licensing regulations
• Maintain operational SOPs and training protocols
• Oversee inventory control and purchasing processes
• Ensure accurate payroll, scheduling, and reporting procedures

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience as a General Manager or Assistant General Manager in a full-service, high-volume restaurant
• Experience managing operations with annual revenues of $5M+
• Proven leadership ability in upscale or fine-dining environments
• Strong financial acumen with labor and cost control experience
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Availability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required

Preferred Experience

• Steakhouse or polished casual dining experience
• Private dining or event oversight
• Tenure in a single-unit, ownership-led restaurant environment

Location and commute

Chicago, IL .

Plan your route with Google Maps. Travel times and transportation options vary; confirm the work location with the employer before commuting.

How to apply

Review the vacancy and complete the application on the employer or recruitment partner’s website. Requisition ID: WJ-3214610667.