Nakama, Milwaukee’s highly anticipated new Japanese dining concept, is hiring experienced and hospitality-focused Servers to join our opening team. Located at 1600 N. Jackson Street, Nakama brings together an intimate omakase experience and a curated hand-roll and small-plates bar, led by award-winning culinary talent.

If you’re passionate about world-class service, exceptional food, and memorable guest interactions, this is an incredible opportunity to help shape one of Milwaukee’s most exciting new restaurants.

About the Server Role

As a Server at Nakama, you’ll deliver refined, attentive hospitality in an elevated Japanese dining environment. You’ll guide guests through menu offerings, support the omakase service flow, run food and drinks, and ensure every guest feels taken care of from the moment they arrive.

This is an excellent opportunity for individuals who thrive in upscale, detail-oriented, guest-driven settings.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide warm, elevated hospitality that reflects Nakama’s standards of service and guest care

• Guide guests through menu offerings including hand rolls, small plates, beverages, and chef-led omakase experiences

• Deliver accurate food and beverage orders promptly and professionally

• Maintain extensive knowledge of menu ingredients, preparation styles, dietary information, and chef recommendations

• Prepare tables, reset dining areas, and maintain pristine cleanliness throughout service

• Process payments, handle POS transactions, and manage checks accurately

• Support omakase pacing and communication between kitchen and front-of-house

• Collaborate closely with bartenders, sushi chefs, and the management team

• Uphold all food safety, alcohol service, and sanitation standards

• Use of our top-of-the-line vinyl hi-fi music system

What We’re Looking For

• Previous experience as a Server in upscale, chef-driven, or Japanese cuisine environments strongly preferred

• Exceptional communication and guest-service skills

• Professional, polished, and poised under pressure

• Ability to multitask in a fast-paced, high-expectation dining room

• Strong attention to detail and a passion for creating memorable experiences

• Team-oriented mindset and willingness to support all FOH positions

• Interest in Japanese cuisine, sushi, omakase, and beverage pairings is a plus

Why You’ll Love Working at Nakama

• Opportunity to be part of an opening team at a high-profile new Milwaukee restaurant

• Work alongside top culinary professionals and hospitality leaders

• Competitive hourly pay + tips

• Employee dining discounts

• Growth opportunities

• Supportive, professional, hospitality-driven culture

As a chef, you’ll learn from one of the Best in the Midwest in Chef Jason Morimoto, winner of Iron Chef Morimoto's Sushi Master Season 2.

Key Responsibilities:

• Guest Service: Greet guests with a friendly attitude and provide excellent customer service

• Food Preparation: Assist with prepping, assembling, and serving food according to restaurant standards

• Maintain Cleanliness: Keep workstations, dining areas, and restrooms clean and organized

• Teamwork: Work closely with other team members to ensure smooth restaurant operations

• Stock and Replenish: Monitor inventory levels and restock as needed

• Follow Safety and Food Guidelines: Adhere to food handling, sanitation, and workplace safety regulations

What We’re Looking For:

• Positive Attitude: Friendly, outgoing, and ready to work hard

• Reliability: Punctual, responsible, and able to handle busy shifts

• Team Player: Works well with others in a high-standard environment

• Adaptability: Willing to learn and take on different tasks

• Customer Service Skills: Experience in hospitality or food service is a must

As a Bartender, you'll learn from some of the Best in the Midwest in Daniel Beres & Tripper Duval.

Responsibilities:

• Prepare and serve drinks accurately and efficiently.

• Provide outstanding customer service and maintain work area cleanliness.

• Manage bar inventory and restocking.

• Follow all alcohol service laws and company policies.

• Work with servers and kitchen staff to ensure smooth service.

Requirements:

• 2+ years of bartending experience preferred.

• Knowledge of classic and craft cocktails.

• Friendly, engaging personality.

• TIPS or Safe Serve certification is a plus.

We’re seeking a Captain who can lead by example, support the team, and keep day-to-day operations running smoothly. If you have a passion for hospitality, great leadership skills, and thrive in a fast-paced environment, this could be the perfect fit.

What We’re Looking For:

• Has a passion for hospitality and a keen eye for detail

• Knows how to build and lead a strong, cohesive team

• Stays calm and collected under pressure

• Is organized, efficient, and solution-oriented

• Communicates effectively with both staff and guests

What You’ll Be Doing:

• Leading your serving shift to ensure exceptional service and smooth operations

• Supervising and supporting coworkers

• Handling guest concerns or feedback with professionalism and care

• Monitoring service quality, cleanliness, and adherence to restaurant standards

• Assisting with administrative

• Overseeing cash handling and opening/closing procedures

• Jumping in to help wherever needed— teamwork matters

If you have ample experience in lead roles and love creating amazing guest experiences, we’d love to talk to you.

This position has the ability to evolve into a traditional chef position for the right person if desired, as our ideal team members are always the ones who are eager to learn more & cross train.