Food Runner at ZUZU DETROIT – DETROIT, Michigan

ELIA Group is a multi-faceted, fully integrated real estate and hospitality company that acquires, develops, and manages commercial properties in landmark locations throughout the United States. In Real Estate & Development and Hospitality, we dont sit back and let things happen, we make things happen! Whether were crafting deals or cocktails, our unparalleled attention to detail leads to award-winning real estate development and hospitality projects.

Zuzu is ELIA Groups upscale Asian dining concept refined, experience-driven, and unapologetically bold. Zuzu blends elevated Asian culinary traditions with contemporary technique, high-energy design, and precision-driven hospitality. Combining an elegant dining experience with vibrant entertainment, ZuZu is the ultimate destination for celebrations and sophisticated evenings. Set against a backdrop of luxurious interiors and dynamic energy, ZuZu is more than a restaurant its a destination.

Food Runners are responsible for the accurate and efficient delivery of food from kitchen to guest. They ensure every plate is presented as intendedhot, clean, and correctand that service moves in rhythm with the kitchen. This role requires organization, urgency, and attention to detail. Runners are expected to uphold Zuzus service standards and support the entire floor and kitchen team throughout service.

Accuracy and Presentation

Verify all items before leaving the pass.

Deliver plates as designed by the chef, maintaining temperature and presentation.

Handle all plateware and glassware carefully and professionally.

Timing and Flow

Move efficiently while maintaining control and awareness.

Coordinate with servers and the expo chef to ensure proper pacing of courses.

Anticipate needs to keep service flow steady and uninterrupted.

Communication

Announce dishes clearly when leaving the kitchen.

Relay guest feedback, dietary notes, or timing adjustments promptly.

Maintain open communication between the kitchen, expo, and dining room teams.

Cleanliness and Organization

Keep runner stations, pass, and side stations clean and stocked.

Assist in maintaining a clean and organized service area throughout the shift.

Support end-of-shift breakdown and restocking for the following service.

Team Support

Assist servers and fellow runners as needed.

Maintain professionalism, composure, and pace during high-volume service.

Actively contribute to a cooperative and disciplined team environment.

Expectations

All food is delivered hot, accurate, and properly presented.

Stations remain organized and fully stocked.

Communication is clear, direct, and professional.

The runner moves with urgency, purpose, and composure.

Prior restaurant experience is a plus, but not required willing to train the right candidate with a strong work ethic and positive attitude.

Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.

Excellent communication skills and a friendly, team-oriented demeanor.

Comfortable interacting with guests and coordinating with servers, hosts, and kitchen staff.

Strong sense of urgency, organization, and attention to detail.

Must be punctual, dependable, and maintain a clean, professional appearance.

Ability to carry and deliver multiple plates or trays safely and efficiently.

Able to understand and follow verbal and written instructions, including table numbers and menu items

At ELIA, we use our unique experience and contributions to deliver more than value we set new standards! The Food Runner we seek is someone looking for more than a job we want to work with someone who is as passionate as us about what we do and how we go about doing it.

Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance

401(k)

Employee Dining Benefits

Competitive hourly pay

Flexible scheduling

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. This position is regularly required to stand for a prolonged period, reach, bend and lift heavy objects. The noise and activity level in the work environment is typically high. You may be required to carry glassware, alcohol, cases of beer, etc. and use knives and other kitchen tools.

Standing for Long Periods: Food Runners are usually on their feet for most, if not all, of their shifts, which can last several hours.

Lifting and Carrying: Food Runners need to lift and carry heavy items such as kegs, boxes of liquor, beer cases, or ice buckets, which can weigh 20-50 pounds or more.

Manual Dexterity and Coordination: Food running requires precision in handling bottles, glasses, and tools. Fast, coordinated movements are essential for mixing drinks, pouring accurately, and working efficiently.

Stamina and Endurance: The role can be physically taxing, with long shifts that may extend late into the night, requiring the Food Runner to remain energetic and focused.

Repetitive Motions: Food Runners frequently repeat actions like shaking cocktails, opening bottles, and using bar tools, which can lead to strain over time.

Good Vision and Hearing: Clear vision is necessary for reading labels, preparing drinks, and observing customers. Good hearing helps Food Runners understand orders in noisy environments.

Balance and Agility: Food Runners often work in fast-paced environments, where they need to move quickly and carefully, avoiding spills or accidents.

Basic Physical Strength: Being able to handle the physical aspects of cleaning the bar, stocking supplies, and handling waste or broken items is crucial.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.