Server (550 Madison)

Madison, WI, USA|Onsite

Job Overview

Employment Type

Full-time

Part-time

Compensation

Hourly

Exact $11.35

Work Schedule

Flexible

Weekend Shifts

Night Shifts

Benefits

Structured, generous compensation

Medical insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Flexible spending account

Commuter Benefits

Referral Bonus Program

Career advancement opportunities

Employee recognition awards

employee dining discounts

Paid Time Off

Job Description

Gracious Hospitality Management is an acclaimed hospitality company known for delivering exceptional dining experiences through its portfolio of award-winning restaurants. As it continues to expand its footprint, Gracious Hospitality Management is launching its most ambitious project to date, 550 Madison, a multi-level, 15,000-square-foot dining destination situated inside the iconic Sony Building in Midtown Manhattan, New York City. This landmark project amalgamates three distinct dining concepts – the second New York location of the Michelin-starred COTE Korean Steakhouse, an all-day multi-bar and dining concept named Chimera, and an intimate sushi restaurant Sushi Yoshitake, led by Michelin-starred Chef Masahiro Yoshitake. The design collaboration includes the world-class Rockwell Group and chef consultant Yoshio Itai, promising to deliver a transportive, immersive dining environment.

The company is currently hiring dynamic and experienced team members across many positions as it prepares to open this exciting new venture in Spring 2026. This hiring initiative includes positions such as servers, prep cooks, line cooks, polishers, porters, receivers, pastry cooks, drink runners, server assistants, food runners, and hosts. Successful candidates will be offered comprehensive on-site training to prepare them for the high standards expected in this prestigious project. The hiring process is thorough and includes resume screening, interviews, open call hiring events, onboarding, training, a pre-opening phase, and finally, the grand opening celebration.

The role of a server at 550 Madison is central to the success of the dining experience. Servers act as ambassadors of hospitality, responsible for greeting guests, guiding them through the menu, ensuring their dietary needs and preferences are met, maintaining the dining environment, and ultimately enhancing overall customer satisfaction. They work closely with management, the kitchen, sommeliers, and supporting staff to deliver seamless service that reflects the quality and reputation of Gracious Hospitality Management and its Michelin-starred concepts.

Servers must have a comprehensive knowledge of the menu, the ability to communicate clearly and positively with guests and teammates, and a poised demeanor to manage busy, often high-pressure service periods. They are integral to upholding the brand’s core values of people, culture, learning, relationships, sustainability, and stewardship, and must maintain professional standards in appearance, hygiene, and conduct at all times. Additionally, servers are expected to contribute positively to the team environment, handle customer concerns promptly and with grace, and participate fully in training and development opportunities.

The pay range for servers at 550 Madison starts at $11.35 per hour. The company offers various benefits, including comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans, flexible spending accounts, commuter benefits, referral bonuses, career advancement opportunities, employee recognition awards, dining discounts, and paid time off. Gracious Hospitality Management is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity and inclusivity, adhering strictly to all federal, state, and local non-discrimination laws. Reasonable accommodations for applicants are available upon request.

This opportunity is ideal for individuals passionate about hospitality, eager to work in a fast-paced, distinguished dining environment, and committed to delivering exceptional customer service. Whether you are an experienced hospitality professional or looking to grow your skills through the provided training, 550 Madison offers a promising and rewarding career path. Interested candidates are encouraged to attend the upcoming open call hiring event at 550 Madison Avenue in New York City on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm. Applicants should bring a copy of their resume and a positive, enthusiastic attitude ready to join a dynamic team committed to excellence in hospitality.

Job Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent
Previous experience in a server or hospitality role preferred
Ability to stand and walk for extended periods
Strong communication skills
Ability to multitask and work in fast-paced environments
Food handler’s certification or ability to obtain
Must be legally allowed to serve alcohol
Availability to work flexible hours including weekends, nights, and holidays
Ability to follow company policies and procedures
Positive attitude and passion for hospitality
Ability to work well in a team setting

Job Qualifications

Must have the ability to read, speak, understand, follow written directions, and verbal instructions in English
Must be reachable by email and able to communicate via phone as well
Communicates information effectively and efficiently
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
Possesses a positive, results-oriented, team-player mentality
Ability to perform job duties and responsibilities well and maintain professionalism and composure under pressure and in a high-paced and at times stressful environment
Ability to maintain professionalism when working under stress
Knowledge of workplace safety procedures and local Department of Health standards
Food Handler's Certification or the ability to obtain in accordance with federal, state, or local regulations and/or Company policy
Able to work a flexible schedule in order to accommodate business levels including weekend, nights, and holiday availability
Must be of legal age to serve alcohol
Certification for responsible alcohol service or ability to obtain within 6 months
Familiarity with restaurant management software such as point of sales, reservations management, inventory management, Microsoft Office, and Google Workspace
Ability to execute steps of service in adherence with company policy
Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills
Excellent communication with management and teammates.

Job Duties

Completes all assigned side work related to set up and breakdown of the dining room and service hutches
Provides enthusiastic hellos and goodbyes to all incoming and departing customers
Provides exceptional service and hospitality to every customer
Reads all customer reservation chits to accommodate special birthdays, anniversaries, and other special requests
Reads all Banquet Event Orders (BEOs) to deliver exceptional experiences for contracted large parties and special events
Greets all customers in their sections, offers water and beverage service, and introduces menu format
Ascertains allergies and dietary restrictions, and works with section management and chefs to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all customers
Executes and delegates steps of service and works harmoniously with their assigned Server Assistant and the section Sommelier and management to ensure exceptional hospitality
Proactively communicates with the management team regarding appropriate service for VIP customers
Full knowledge of COTE food and beverage menu items to make effective sales that enhances both the business and customer experience
Runs drinks from the bar to the assigned customer by table and position number
Checks identification of customers to ensure they are of legal age to consume alcoholic beverages and refuses service of alcoholic beverages in a polite manner to customers who are not of legal age
Accurately takes and enters orders and communicates flow with management and chefs
Effectively uses point of sale systems and other restaurant technology to account for all sales
Checks back on every course to ascertain customer happiness, and confirms that meat temperatures and seasoning is appropriate
Responsible for training new employees as assigned
Proactively communicates up to management all notable details (happy or unhappy) of their section tables to enhance the dining experience
Handles customer complaints or issues with a positive attitude, notifying management every time a customer is upset, or unhappy
Adheres to high standards of cleanliness, pre-bussing tables when possible
Maintains all service tools including trays, silverware, plate ware, glassware, scissors, and tongs
Reports to each scheduled shift on time, in uniform, and ready to work
Assists other stations or areas of the restaurant when requested by management.