2026 SUMMER EMPLOYMENT: This spring we will be hiring team members for our deli-style kitchen and front counter / food runner setup of operation. If you're outgoing, enjoy a lively work setting and have food service experience, consider joining us!

The Waterfront Cafe values dedicated individuals who are passionate about providing exceptional service and contributing to a positive work environment. Employment available from Memorial Day to the end of September 2026.

All employees must hold an Illinois Food Handler Permit, as well as, an Illinois BASSET Certification if employment requires serving alcohol.

The Waterfront Cafe, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a Drug Free Work Place. In compliance with Federal and State equal employment opportunity laws, qualified applicants are considered for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, marital status, veteran status, non-job related disability or any other protected group status.

To: The 2025 Waterfront Cafe Team

HAPPY NEW YEAR! 🎉

We hope you’ve had a wonderful, restful & peaceful holiday season. Here’s to a joyful, bright and prosperous New Year!

THANK YOU once again for all of your hard work and dedication! Because of you, we’ve had another successful year — truly something to celebrate. Woohoo! 🙌

We also have some great news to share regarding taxes for tipped employees:

A new federal law, part of the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” signed in July 2025, allows eligible tipped workers to deduct up to $25,000 per year in qualified tips from federal income taxes for tax years 2025 through 2028. This means that this portion of your income will be exempt from federal income tax.

For the 2025 tax year (when filing in early 2026), you can claim this deduction on a new IRS form, Schedule 1-A found here: 2025 Schedule 1-A (Form 1040)

The IRS has provided guidance to help workers determine their deduction amount for 2025, as W-2 forms were not updated for the current tax year.  However you can find your Total Tip Amount to deduct on

• Line 7 (Social Security Wages) of your W-2, and

• the attached Waterfront Café Payroll Summary for your reference.

Additional guidance for individual taxpayers on claiming qualified tips is can be obtained from the Treasury and IRS. Consider consulting a tax professional for your personal situation.

Thank you again for everything you contributed — we couldn’t have done it without you. Here’s to another great year ahead!

APPLY NOW: If you’re interested in a spot on our summer team, start by applying here and attaching your resume. Your resume should highlight relevant experience, skills, and enthusiasm for the role you are applying for.