Internship Opportunities in Minnesota
Lettuce Entertain You is excited to offer a variety of options for restaurant management and culinary internships. We offer two levels of Restaurant Management Internships that take place over the summer months. In addition to our summer programs, we offer culinary externships throughout the school year and summer.
This program will run from May 26 through August 4, 2026, approximately 10 weeks in length. Applications will be accepted until Friday, April 10, 2026; late applications will not be considered. Interns are responsible for their own housing and transportation. Please email mbanovic@lettuce.com with any questions.
Our Level 2 internship program is by invitation only.
Responsibilities
Both Level 1 & 2 Interns
To all Chicago-based interns : Please be aware that working all four days of the Windy City Smokeout festival (July 9-12, 2026) are mandatory. Interns in other markets with interest in working this event, may do so with prior approval from partners and / or general managers. All interns will be responsible for any travel and / or accommodations needed during the Windy City Smokeout festival.
Level 1 Summer Internship Program
- Interns are hired to work an hourly role in one of our restaurants in Illinois, Washington D.C., Minnesota, Nevada, Texas, Florida or Tennessee.
- Interns attend weekly meetings where Lettuce industry experts cover topics such as restaurant financials, menu creation, marketing and more.
- The Level 1 internship includes a group project with final presentation at a live expo.
Level 2 Summer Internship Program
Positions include a variety of restaurant opportunities based on experience!Level 2 includes completing a restaurant-based Project Checklist and an individually curated experience depending on the restaurant's needs and the intern's level of expertise.Interns are hired to work in a leadership role in one of our restaurants in Illinois, Washington D.C., Minnesota, Nevada, Texas, Florida or Tennessee.Restaurant Management Interns participate in and complete internship program activities.
Essential Functions
Participate in and complete weekly seminars, management checklists, management feedback, summer festivals (e.g., Windy City Smokeout for Chicago area interns), restaurant concept project, Intern Expo, group events and other program activitiesPerform essential functions and key responsibilities listed in hourly job description (e.g., host, server, runner, busser, cook, etc.) for the assigned role determined by intern's supervising manager at designated restaurant locationSafely and effectively use and operate all necessary tools and equipmentWork a variety of days and shifts including weekends and nightsEffectively communicate in order to perform and follow job requirements in written and spoken directionMultitask calmly and effectively in a busy, stressful environmentWork in a confined, crowded space of variable light, noise and temperature levelsAbility to move and lift up to 10 pounds, frequently move and / or lift up to 25 pounds, and occasionally move and / or lift up to 50 poundsAbility to sit or stand for an entire shift and move safely through all areas of the restaurant, which may include stairs, uneven or slick surfacesKey Responsibilities and Duties
Ensure the overall guest experience exceeds expectations and anticipate guests' needsGreet guests with a warm, sincere smileUse tact and good judgment when dealing with guest challenges and respond to guest needs with patience and courtesyProficiently use and operate all necessary tools and equipmentComply with all safety and sanitation guidelines and proceduresFollow all rules, policies, procedures and conditions of employment, including those outlined in the Employee HandbookGet along well with others and be a team playerOther duties will be assigned as neededQualifications
Level 1 Summer Internship Program
At least one year of hospitality experience is required. Customer service experience will be considered.Level 2 Summer Internship Program
Applicants must have the following to be considered :Successfully completed a Level 1 Lettuce InternshipConsistently worked within the restaurant industry for at least 4 years, with a minimum of 2 years serving experience.Why Work With Lettuce?
We are a culinary-driven company with a genuine commitment to our people : we welcome unique perspectives and nurture diverse talents at 100+ locations, supported by our Culture of Caring. If you're ready to be a part of what we do next, then explore your possibilities at Lettuce! EOE. We participate in E-Verify / Participamos en E-Verify