General Manager - Cocktail Bar / Restaurant

Orion Placement; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 80,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative hospitality concept in the heart of Chicago seeks a dynamic General Manager to lead their high-volume cocktail bar and restaurant. This role demands a hands-on leader who thrives in a beverage-centric environment, overseeing operations, managing costs, and ensuring exceptional guest experiences. With a focus on teamwork and a passion for nightlife culture, this opportunity offers a chance to shape a unique brand in one of Chicago's vibrant neighborhoods. Join a creative team backed by a stable hospitality group and enjoy benefits like health insurance and paid vacation.

Benefits

Health insurance

2 weeks paid vacation

Additional PTO with tenure

Creative team environment

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a General Manager in a high-volume bar or restaurant.
• Strong background in beverage management and labor cost control.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of a busy cocktail bar and restaurant.
• Lead and inspire front-of-house and back-of-house staff.

Skills

Beverage management

Labor cost management

Team leadership

P&L understanding

Customer service

Education

Prior GM experience

Background in craft cocktails

Job description

1 week ago Be among the first 25 applicants

This range is provided by Orion Placement. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.

Base pay range

$80,000.00/yr - $85,000.00/yr

Note: This position requires employees to be on-site five days a week at the Chicago, IL cocktail bar/restaurant and corporate office (same location).

Note: Our client’s cocktail bar/restaurant closes at 2:00 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. The successful candidate will be expected to close four days per week and should anticipate working an average of 50–55 hours per week.

About Our Client

Our client is a creative and immersive hospitality concept located in the heart of Chicago. Known for its elevated cocktail experience, chic atmosphere, and dynamic energy, this cocktail-forward venue is ideal for unique date nights and intimate gatherings. Backed by a seasoned hospitality group with a growing portfolio, the team is passionate about delivering an unforgettable guest experience.

Job Description

Our client is seeking a hands-on General Manager to lead their high-volume cocktail bar and restaurant. This is not your traditional restaurant GM role — it requires someone who thrives in a beverage-centric, nightlife-driven environment.

• Oversee day-to-day operations of a busy cocktail bar and dinner service
• Lead and inspire a team of front-of-house and back-of-house staff
• Manage labor and beverage costs with a strategic and analytical mindset
• Maintain high service standards and a memorable guest experience
• Ensure smooth coordination across departments, especially during peak hours
• Schedule and close the restaurant 3-4 nights per week, working Wednesday–Sunday
• Handle performance evaluations, compliance, and quality control
• Report directly to ownership and collaborate with corporate support

Qualifications

• Prior GM experience in a high-volume bar or cocktail-focused venue
• Background in craft cocktails and beverage management
• Strong understanding of labor reports, P&L, and cost control
• Hands-on leadership style with a team-first mentality
• Comfortable working late hours, especially on weekends (venue open until 2–3am)
• Professionalism, attention to detail, and a passion for nightlife culture

Why This Is a Great Opportunity

• Health insurance and 2 weeks paid vacation
• Additional PTO earned with tenure (up to 4 weeks)
• Chance to shape and grow a unique, cocktail-driven brand
• Work with a close-knit, creative team backed by a stable hospitality group
• Located in one of Chicago’s most vibrant neighborhoods

JPC-262

Seniority level

• Seniority level

  Associate

Employment type

• Employment type

  Full-time

Job function

• Job function

  Management

• Industries

  Hospitality

Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at Orion Placement by 2x

Inferred from the description for this job

Medical insurance

Vision insurance

401(k)

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