About the role
Pay: $10.00 to $12.00 per hour
Description
Umami Riot
was born from a simple idea: pair joyful hospitality with uncompromising craftsmanship. Founded by Chef Tim Cushman and sake expert Nancy Cushman, our restaurants celebrate bold flavor, precision, and a deep respect for Japanese foodways – translated through a distinctly Boston lens. At Umami Riot, we’re not here to follow the rules of hospitality, we’re here to rewrite them – with heart, craft and fearless creativity.
We’re looking for a
Food Runner
who drives the flow between kitchen and floor and makes every dish land with impact.
THE GIG (AKA WHAT YOU’LL ACTUALLY BE DOING)
The connective tissue between kitchen and guests — keeping food moving fast, clean, and exactly as intended
Speed-driven execution with precision and polish, making sure every dish hits the table hot, correct, and looking its best
Protection of the rhythm of service through tight communication between FOH and BOH — flow is everything
Constant motion and sharp awareness during long, steady services, supporting servers without missing a beat
Clean, organized pass areas and service stations maintained so nothing slows the momentum
Proactive, reliable presence — anticipating needs, holding sanitation and safety standards high, and showing up energized for nights, weekends, and holidays
THIS ROLE IS A GREAT FIT IF…
You move with confidence and love staying in the rhythm of service
You care about how food
lands
— presentation, timing, and polish matter to you
You thrive in high heat, high energy, and keep your cool while doing it
You know how to move between kitchen and floor without breaking stride
You like being essential to the moment, even when you’re behind the scenes
You bring focus, flow, and a steady swagger to every shift
Requirements
LET’S SET EXPECTATIONS (IN A GOOD WAY)
This is a fast-paced environment fueled by movement, heat, music, and momentum, where you’re on your feet, navigating between HOH and FOH throughout each shift.
Yes — this is a hands-on role. You’ll be active for long shifts, lifting up to 50 lbs., bending, reaching, and moving easily through tight spaces. A disciplined commitment to sanitation, safety, and cleanliness is part of the craft here, and we’re committed to providing reasonable accommodations to support individuals in performing the essential functions of the role.
WHY PEOPLE STICK AROUND
Competitive hourly pay & tips - because your work matters
Dining discounts across all Umami Riot locations
Growth that’s real (not just talked about)
FREE PARKING
A team culture rooted in respect, creativity, and heart
Pay Range $10-$12 per hour based on experience
EOE