Finding a restaurant job in the US can be quick and straightforward when you know where to search. Whether you’re new to the country or simply looking for flexible work, there are tools that can make the process easier. Even without experience, many positions are available for motivated applicants ready to start right away.
Specialized apps can connect you directly with restaurants hiring in your area, helping you skip long application processes. This guide explores the most effective platforms, highlights common entry-level roles, and offers strategies to boost your chances of getting hired fast.
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Find a Restaurant Job Near You: Best Apps for Fast Hiring
Several apps specialize in the niche restaurant job, making the hiring process faster:
Poached Jobs
Poached specializes in restaurant industry jobs featuring:
- Direct connections with hiring managers;
- Focus on major metro areas (NYC, Chicago, LA);
- Daily updated listings for back and front of house;
- Option to upload video introductions.
Culinary Agents
Culinary Agents, available on both Android e iOS, offers:
- Verified listings from upscale establishments;
- Career level filters (entry to executive);
- Salary comparison tools;
- Event and networking features.
4.7/5
Instawork
Instawork, available for Android e iOS, specializes in:
- Same-day shift opportunities;
- Instant payment options;
- Ratings system for workers and businesses;
- Training modules for food safety certifications.
4.5/5
For more gig opportunities, check our list of best gig apps.
How to Get Hired Without Restaurant Experience
Breaking into the restaurant industry without prior experience may seem challenging, but the sector is actually one of the most accessible for job seekers starting their careers in the US.
According to the National Restaurant Association, over 50% of food service workers begin with no formal training. Here’s how you can successfully land a restaurant job even as a complete beginner:
Frame Your Transferable Skills
Restaurants value these qualities over direct experience:
- Customer Service: retail, market stalls, or any public-facing role counts
- Lavoro di squadra: sports, volunteer work, or group projects demonstrate this
- Fast-Paced Work Ethic: highlight any job requiring quick thinking (delivery, warehouse)
- Physical Stamina: construction, cleaning, or farming backgrounds translate well
Pro tip: structure your resume/resume-free application like this:
“I may not have restaurant experience, but at [previous job], I [relevant skill] will help me [restaurant task].”
Ace the Practical Interview
Restaurant hiring managers often care more about:
- Disponibilità (nights/weekends);
- Willingness to learn;
- Positive attitude.
Common interview questions to prepare for:
- “Can you handle stressful situations?”
- “Are you comfortable working on your feet for 8 hours?”
Take Advantage of Training
As noted by Raise.me, most restaurants provide:
- 1–3 days of shadowing experienced staff;
- Menu knowledge sessions;
- Point-of-system (POS) training.
Many corporate chains (like Olive Garden) even offer:
- Paid training programs;
- English language resources;
- Clear promotion timelines.
Common Roles You Can Apply For as a New Immigrant
For non-English speakers, Reddit users suggest starting in kitchen roles. Focus on these beginner-friendly roles that often require no experience:
Dishwasher (12–16/hour)
- Why it’s ideal: no English required, minimal interaction;
- Path to advancement: many chefs start here;
- Key trait needed: reliability and stamina.
Busser (13–18/hour + tips)
- Why it’s ideal: learn dining room operations;
- Path to advancement: can become a server within months;
- Key trait needed: attention to detail.
Food Runner (14–20/hour)
- Why it’s ideal: minimal customer interaction;
- Path to advancement: moves to server or bartender;
- Key trait needed: basic English helps.
Prep Cook (15–22/hour)
- Why it’s ideal: great for those who enjoy behind-the-scenes work;
- Path to advancement: can move up to line cook or sous-chef roles;
- Key trait needed: attention to detail and ability to follow instructions.
Where to Apply First
Prioritize these high-turnover establishments that frequently hire beginners:
- Breakfast diners (earlier hours, simpler menus);
- Pizza/quick-serve restaurants (fast-paced but less formal);
- Corporate chains (standardized training systems);
- Catering companies (event-based work).
Industry insight: the average restaurant replaces 73% of its staff annually (Bureau of Labor Statistics), meaning new opportunities constantly arise regardless of season.
By strategically positioning yourself as a quick learner e reliable worker, you can successfully enter the restaurant industry and build a pathway to higher-paying roles like server, bartender, or even kitchen manager within your first year.
Next Steps:
- Download 2–3 recommended apps and complete profiles tonight;
- Visit 3 local restaurants during off-hours (2–4pm) to ask about openings;
- Prepare one convincing answer about why you’ll be a great hire.
For those needing to improve English for customer-facing roles, many community colleges offer free workplace ESL classes—ask at your local library for resources.
Best Cities for Restaurant Jobs in the US
Some locations have more openings:
- New York, NY: high demand in Manhattan and Brooklyn;
- Las Vegas, NV: hotels and resorts always hiring;
- Miami, FL: many seasonal and tourist-heavy spots;
- Chicago, IL: strong restaurant scene with flexible gigs.
Ricerca McDonald’s hiring portal for chain restaurant opportunities.
How to Get Paid Fast and Grow in the Industry
- Choose gig apps (Instawork, Qwick) for same-week pay;
- Move up from busser to server (higher tips);
- Learn kitchen skills to become a line cook.
For interview tips, visit PassMyInterview’s waiter guide.
Pensieri finali
Using the right apps and strategies, you can quickly land a restaurant job near you. Start with entry-level roles, gain experience, and advance to higher-paying positions.
For more opportunities, explore Culinary Agents’ job listings.
