About the role#
This culinary internship provides a hands-on look at back-of-house operations within our restaurant group. The program runs from May 25 through August 4, 2027. You will balance practical work in a restaurant with weekly educational seminars covering topics like restaurant financials, menu creation, and marketing. Interns are required to participate in the Windy City Smokeout festival from July 8-11, 2027.
What you'll do#
- Perform the daily duties of your assigned hourly role, such as cooking.
- Safely operate all kitchen tools and equipment.
- Complete management checklists and provide feedback throughout the program.
- Work on a restaurant concept project for a final presentation at the Intern Expo.
- Attend weekly seminars and group events.
- Maintain a safe and clean workspace by following all sanitation guidelines.
- Multitask in a busy environment while keeping a calm demeanor.
- Greet guests and handle challenges with tact and good judgment.
- Work a flexible schedule that includes nights and weekends.
What you'll need#
- At least 1 year of practical experience or current enrollment in a culinary program.
- Experience with Italian or French cuisine is a plus.
- Ability to stand for an entire shift and move safely through restaurant areas.
- Capacity to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally.
- Strong communication skills to follow written and spoken directions.
Location & details#
- Location: Chicago, Illinois.
- Term: Summer 2027.
- Modality: On-site.
- Compensation: Paid position ($16.00 - $20.00 per hour).
- Note: Interns are responsible for their own housing and transportation.
About Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants
Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants is a family-owned restaurant group based in Chicago. Founded in 1971, the company manages and licenses over 110 locations across several states and Washington D.C. The group operates more than 60 different concepts that range from fast casual to fine dining. It employs between 5,001 and 10,000 people.
How to get in at Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants
Landing an internship at Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants requires staying ahead of the competition. Because the company manages many distinct concepts, roles can appear and fill quickly. Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a role matching your target is published anywhere, so you apply among the first. Early applicants get seen before the pile grows, which is a significant advantage in a fast-paced hospitality environment. You should also consider reaching out to the team directly to show interest. Intern Insider surfaces the recruiters behind the company's roles so you can reach out directly to ask about the role or a referral. Connecting with the right person materially improves response rates and helps you stand out from the general applicant pool.
