Bottleneck Management

Bottleneck Management is a dynamic restaurant group headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, renowned for its vibrant and high-energy dining experiences across the United States. Established in 2001 by Illinois Wesleyan University alumni Jason Akemann and Nathan Hilding, the company began with the opening of Trace, a two-story tavern in Chicago's Wrigleyville neighborhood.

In 2007, they expanded their portfolio by launching The Boundary in Wicker Park, marking the beginning of their full-service restaurant operations.

The company's portfolio includes several distinctive restaurant concepts, each offering modern American cuisine, an extensive beverage program, and thoughtfully designed interiors. Notable among these are:

• Old Town Pour House: Celebrated for its impressive selection of craft beers and elevated dining experience.
• City Works Eatery & Pour House: A contemporary venue emphasizing both exceptional food and beverage offerings, with locations in Chicago, Oak Brook, and Gaithersburg, Maryland.
• Howells & Hood: Located in Chicago, this restaurant is known for its extensive beer selection and diverse menu.
• Sweetwater Tavern & Grille: Offering a blend of classic and contemporary American dishes in a welcoming atmosphere.
• South Branch: A venue that combines a lively bar scene with a diverse menu, catering to a wide range of tastes.

Bottleneck Management's commitment to genuine hospitality is evident in its core values, which include understanding the needs of others, supporting team members, empowering staff to excel, and fostering an enjoyable work environment.

The company places a strong emphasis on promoting from within, offering career advancement opportunities through programs like the Red Shirt Program, which aims to develop future leaders in the hospitality industry.

As of 2024, Bottleneck Management employs approximately 1,500 individuals and has expanded its operations to multiple locations across the United States.

Locations

• Chicago, IL, USA
• Oak Brook, IL, USA
• Naperville, IL, USA
• Gaithersburg, MD, USA
• Schaumburg, IL, USA
• Norristown, PA, USA
• Orlando, FL, USA
• Fort Worth, TX, USA
• Pittsburgh, PA, USA
• Watertown, MA, USA

The company's dedication to quality, innovation, and community engagement continues to drive its growth and success in the competitive restaurant industry.