Meet the Team in Naperville
At Bottleneck, we’re all about making someone’s day better.
From the laughter shared with regulars to spontaneous sing-alongs, our team members are the heart of our restaurants. Let’s go behind the scenes with Kimberly Gill, our outgoing server, occasional host, and Red Shirt.
Meet Kimberly Gill:
Where are you from?
Born and raised in the Chicago burbs.
What do you enjoy about your job?
The guests! I love talking to different people every day! It’s never the same two days in a row. It’s fast-paced with good energy, and I’ve made lifelong friends here.
What do you do when you are not at work?
When I’m not at work I’m taking care of my family and trying to attend as many concerts as humanly possible.
What do you enjoy about working with the team/company?
This may sound cheesy but…I know I can walk in that building any day, any time and there will be someone who genuinely cares about me there. I also have to be proud of what I’m serving. I’m just not going to work somewhere that doesn’t produce quality products. Lastly, the flexibility I’ve been allowed throughout my tenure. It’s changed 1,000 times since I started, and I love that I have 7 days a week and roughly 14 hours in a day to get the hours that work with my family life!
Current favorite drink?
Probably the Blue Zombie. I don’t drink much anymore so I tend to go for sweeter, doesn’t taste like alcohol, drinks when I do.
What is something that people probably don’t know about you?
Haha! There’s not much! I’m very outgoing and have no shame but if I had to pick something it would have to be my love of the outdoors! My age is starting to slow me down, but I love hiking, biking and swimming.
Favorite TV/Movie Quote?
“Being in power is like being a lady, if you have to tell people you are, then you aren’t.” – Margaret Thatcher
Biggest party foul?
Being sloppy! Don’t rely on other people to handle you or the mess you’ve created!
What’s your favorite item on the City Works menu?
We’ve really upped our taco game over the years but I’m a sucker for goat cheese, so I’d have to pick our Rigatoni.
If you could only have one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?
That’s tough. I’m a side chick. All the side dishes, all day, every day!
Share a moment of personal triumph.
Beating Breast Cancer in 2019. Aside from raising my incredible daughter that was definitely my rising through the ashes moment. Physically AND mentally!
What has been your most memorable experience at Bottleneck Management so far?
Any time there’s an impromptu sing along and there’s been many! Is it because I’ve started them? Mayyyybe. The best was the guys we had from Europe and Bohemian Rhapsody was on. After it was over they just kept shouting, “We love America!” If that’s not engaging our guests, I don’t know what is!
What’s your go-to karaoke song?
Oof. Lol Baby Got Back, ANY Missy Elliot song or some inappropriate 90’s rap will get my shoulders bouncing.
If you had a superpower, what would it be?
Subliminal mind control. For instance, they came in thinking they wanted a hot tea but then I pull the Jedi mind trick and now they have a flight!
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
At the end of the day, it’s only beer and burgers. We’re not saving lives but we can make them better!
What’s your favorite thing about your city?
I live in Montgomery, Il and I love that it’s a small-town feel but has every amenity needed right up the street.
Is there anything else you’d like us to share?
Never be too proud or embarrassed to ask for help, professionally or personally. It’s a sign of strength, not weakness!
Next time you’re in Naperville, be sure to say hi to Kimberly and if you’re up for it, maybe even kick off a sing-along.
And if our rigatoni caught your eye, you’re in luck. Chef Zach shared his recipe, so you can bring a taste of Old Town Pour House home.