How It All Started
Two friends from Illinois Wesleyan University decided to leave their respective careers to pursue a passion to become self-employed entrepreneurs.
Jason Akemann and Nate Hilding opened Trace, a two-story tavern in Chicago’s Wrigleyville in the spring of 2001. In 2007, Bottleneck began to take shape when Jason and Nate teamed up with long-time friend and IWU classmate, Chris Bisaillon. In September of that year, the three partners opened their first full-service restaurant, The Boundary in Wicker Park. Aggressive growth ensued.
Purpose & Values
Our core values stem from a desire to surround ourselves with genuine people.
We strive to live and work in an honest manner in order to offer our guests an authentic hospitality experience. Understand, Support, Empower and Enjoy are not just the key attributes of our company, they’re the principles at the heart of who we are. These bedrock values remind us to be the best versions of ourselves and the best teammates for each other.
Our purpose is to make someone’s day better, whether that’s a teammate or guest. Genuine people offering genuine hospitality – that’s who we are.
Understand
We believe listening is key to understanding. Whether it’s our open door policy at the home office, or seeking to understand our guest’s needs, truly listening to one another and keeping an open mind to new possibilities and perspectives is what leads to understanding.
Empower
We trust that every member of our team is taking ownership of their work and are therefore empowered to make great decisions.
Support
A supportive climate fosters incredible things. We encourage each other, we come to the table prepared, and we set our teams up for success by providing the tools they need. Support is helping each other grow.
Enjoy
We enjoy “hosting the party” for our guests. To do that well, we choose high-energy, positive, passionate teammates. Together, we create an enjoyable working environment.
Our Team
Bottleneck has grown into a well-oiled restaurant management group. Our people are the key to success, with each department made up of professionals who show a great level of commitment to the team and to the guest experience.
