Storyteller (Seasonal)

Eataly North America • Chicago, IL

5d • Onsite

About The Position

A Storyteller helps guests make informed and confident shopping decisions by sharing the stories behind Eataly’s products and recommending food and beverage pairings. The role combines hospitality, customer education, and sales, introducing customers to authentic Italian specialties and the people, regions, traditions, and craftsmanship behind them. Storytellers host tastings, maintain tasting stations, educate guests about products and their traditional uses, and help turn samples into purchases and lasting brand loyalty. The position reports to the Dry Market Manager and may also include general cleaning, stocking, merchandise organization, and operational support for other departments as needed.

Requirements

• Warm, outgoing, engaging communication style with a strong focus on customer service.
• Confidence explaining products and sharing personal recommendations.
• Availability to work onsite with a flexible schedule that often includes evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to remain mobile for up to 8 hours, including standing, walking, bending, and squatting.

Nice To Haves

• Hands-on experience and knowledge of Italian ingredients, regions, traditions, and producers.
• Hospitality-minded approach and a strong understanding of creating memorable customer experiences.
• Previous experience in a high-volume retail setting.

Responsibilities

• Host scheduled tasting sessions at dedicated tasting stations.
• Set up, operate, and break down tasting stations while maintaining presentation and complying with food safety standards.
• Manage tasting supplies and sampling product inventory, minimizing waste.
• Work toward daily and weekly sales targets by converting samples into retail purchases and building brand loyalty.
• Share product knowledge and explain traditional uses; recommend pairings, recipes, and serving ideas.
• Tell guests about products’ geographical origins, DOP/IGP status, historical significance, and traditional production methods.
• Introduce guests to regional Italian specialties, including artisanal cheeses, cured meats, pasta, sauces, olive oils, and sweets.
• Create memorable tasting experiences that evoke a journey through Italy.
• Perform additional duties such as cleaning, stocking, organizing merchandise, and providing operational support to other departments as needed.

What This Job Offers

• Education Level: No Education Listed