20 Portillo’s Interview Questions and Answers

Portillo’s is a Chicago-based restaurant chain specializing in hot dogs, Italian beef, and other Chicago-style food. Founded in 1963, Portillo’s now has more than 50 locations across the United States.

If you’re applying for a job at Portillo’s, you can expect to be asked a variety of questions about your qualifications, work history, and availability. In this guide, we’ve assembled a list of Portillo’s interview questions and answers to help you prepare for your interview.

Portillo’s Interview Process

The interview process at Portillo’s can vary depending on the position you are applying for. For some positions, like cashier or crew member, you may be interviewed on the spot and offered the job immediately. For other positions, like manager or assistant general manager, the process may be more extensive and include multiple interviews. Overall, the interview process is generally quick and easy, with most applicants being offered the job on the spot.

1. Do you have any experience working in a fast-paced environment?

Portillo’s is a fast-paced restaurant that serves many customers each day. The interviewer wants to make sure you can handle the pace of working in this type of environment. Use your answer to highlight your ability to work quickly and efficiently while maintaining quality customer service.

Example: “I have worked in a busy restaurant before, so I am used to the fast pace. In my last position, we had a lot of customers during lunchtime, so I learned how to multitask and serve multiple tables at once. This helped me become more efficient with my time management skills.”

2. What are the most important qualities for a successful team member at Portillo’s?

Teamwork is an important quality for any job, but it’s especially vital in the food service industry. Portillo’s wants to know that you understand how teamwork can help you succeed and make your coworkers successful as well. When answering this question, consider what qualities you have that would be beneficial to a team.

Example: “I believe communication and respect are the most important qualities for a successful team member at Portillo’s. I am always willing to listen to my coworkers and customers, and I try to treat everyone with kindness and understanding. Respect is essential because it shows others that I value their opinions and ideas. It also helps me learn from them so I can improve myself and my work.”

3. How would you deal with an angry customer?

Portillo’s is known for its friendly service and employees. The company wants to make sure you can handle difficult customers in a professional manner. When answering this question, it’s important to show that you have the ability to remain calm under pressure. You should also demonstrate empathy by listening to their concerns and resolving them as quickly as possible.

Example: “I would first try to understand why they are upset. I would apologize for any inconvenience and do my best to resolve the issue. If the customer was unhappy with their food or service, I would offer to replace their meal or give them a discount on their next visit. I believe that treating customers well will help prevent future issues.”

4. Tell me about a time when you had to work as part of a team.

Working as part of a team is an important skill to have in any job. Employers ask this question to make sure you are able to work well with others and that you understand the importance of teamwork. In your answer, try to explain what made working together so successful.

Example: “In my last position, I worked alongside two other employees who were also servers. We all had different strengths and weaknesses, but we learned how to work together to help each other out when needed. For example, one day I was very busy while my coworkers were not as busy. Instead of trying to rush through their tables quickly, they helped me get caught up on my tables so I could take care of theirs. This allowed us to all finish our shifts at the same time.”

5. Why do you want to work at Portillo’s?

This question is a great way for the interviewer to learn more about your interest in working at Portillo’s. They want to know that you are passionate about their company and its values. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention specific aspects of the job or company that appeal to you.

Example: “I have always been a huge fan of Portillo’s food, so I was thrilled when I saw there was an opportunity to work here. I love how friendly everyone seems to be, and I am excited to get to know my coworkers even better. I also really like the idea of being able to provide excellent customer service while making delicious food.”

6. Are you comfortable handling money and operating a cash register?

Portillo’s is a fast-paced environment, and the interviewer wants to make sure you have experience handling cash. If you don’t have any previous cashiering experience, explain that you are willing to learn how to operate a register.

Example: “I worked as a hostess at an upscale restaurant for two years, so I am familiar with operating a cash register. However, if there is anything I need to brush up on, I would be happy to do so.”

7. Describe your previous food preparation experience.

Portillo’s is a fast-food restaurant that serves hot dogs, hamburgers and other American favorites. The company wants to know about your previous food preparation experience so they can determine if you have the skills needed for this position. When answering this question, be honest about your experience but also highlight any unique or special skills you may have.

Example: “I worked as a cook at a local diner for five years. I started out washing dishes and eventually moved up to cooking burgers and fries. I learned how to make many different types of foods, including some more complicated meals like chicken parmesan and lasagna. I am confident in my ability to prepare all kinds of food and serve it to customers quickly and efficiently.”

8. Have you ever worked in a kitchen before? If so, what was your role?

This question is a great way to learn more about your potential new colleague’s experience. If they have worked in a kitchen before, you can ask them what their favorite part of the job was and how it prepared them for this role.

Example: “I haven’t worked in a kitchen before, but I did work as a server at a local restaurant when I was in college. It was my first time working in food service, so I learned a lot about customer service and teamwork. I think those skills are important for any position, including this one.”

9. We are looking for someone who can lead by example. Can you tell us about a time when you were able to lead a group towards success?

Portillo’s is a fast-paced environment, and the hiring manager wants to make sure you can handle the pressure. When answering this question, it can be helpful to talk about your leadership skills and how they helped you achieve success in previous roles.

Example: “In my last position as a server at a busy restaurant, I was responsible for leading a team of servers during our busiest times. We had a lot of new employees who were still learning their jobs, so I made sure to lead by example and show them what I expected from them. This allowed me to train my staff while also ensuring that customers received excellent service.”

10. What is your availability?

Employers ask this question to make sure you are available for the job. They want someone who can work a full-time schedule and be on time. When answering, let them know your availability and what days of the week you are not working. If you have any flexibility in your schedule, mention that as well.

Example: “I am currently only able to work Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. I do have some flexibility with my schedule though, so if there is an emergency or need for me to work overtime, I would be willing to accommodate.”

11. Which shift are you available to work?

Employers ask this question to make sure you are available for the hours they need. They also want to know if you have any scheduling preferences. Before your interview, check out the company’s website or call them to find out which shifts they offer and what days of the week those shifts are offered. If you see a shift that works with your availability, mention it in your answer.

Example: “I am available to work all three shifts. I prefer working the evening shift because I enjoy interacting with customers when they are in a good mood. However, I would be happy to work any shift as long as it fits my schedule.”

12. Portillo’s has been around since 1963, how do you think we’ve stayed relevant throughout the years?

This question is a great way to show your knowledge of the company and how you can help it continue to succeed. You should answer this question by explaining what makes Portillo’s unique, including its menu items or customer service.

Example: “I think one of the reasons Portillo’s has been able to stay relevant for so long is because of its commitment to quality food and excellent customer service. I have heard many stories about how friendly the staff is at each location, which is something that sets us apart from other fast-food chains. Another reason why I believe Portillo’s has stayed relevant over the years is because of its diverse menu. The fact that we offer both hot dogs and Italian food shows that we are willing to try new things and evolve with our customers.

13. Give an example of a time when you had to solve a problem that was not straightforward. How did you approach the problem?

Portillo’s is a fast-paced environment, and the interviewer wants to make sure you can handle pressure. This question also allows them to assess your problem-solving skills. When answering this question, think of an example that showcases your critical thinking skills.

Example: “At my previous job, I had to solve a problem where one of our customers was upset because they thought we were out of their favorite food item. The customer called me on the phone and demanded to know why we didn’t have it in stock. I explained to her that we did not have any more of that product at that time but would be getting some more in later that week. She seemed satisfied with my answer and hung up.”

14. When you are working on a team project, how often do you like to be in contact with your team members?

Portillo’s is a fast-paced environment where teamwork and communication are essential. The interviewer wants to know how you will fit into the team, as well as your preferred method of communicating with others. Your answer should show that you value teamwork and enjoy being in contact with your colleagues.

Example: “I like to be in frequent contact with my team members because I find it helps me stay organized and on track. However, I also understand that sometimes there are situations where we need to focus on our individual tasks for a while. In those cases, I am always available by phone or email if anyone needs help.”

15. What do you know about Portillo’s?

This question is a great way for the interviewer to see how much you know about their company. It’s also an opportunity for you to show that you have done your research and are excited to work there. When answering this question, make sure to include some information about the history of Portillo’s as well as what makes it unique.

Example: “I first heard about Portillo’s when I was in high school. My friend told me they had amazing hot dogs, so we went there one day after class. The food was delicious, and I remember thinking that the restaurant was very unique. Since then, I have been back many times with my family. I love the Chicago-style hot dogs and Italian beef sandwiches.”

16. What are some things you learned from past jobs or school that could help you succeed at Portillo’s?

Portillo’s wants to know that you are a hard worker who is eager to learn. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention something specific about yourself or your past experience that could help you succeed at Portillo’s.

Example: “In my last job as a server, I learned how important it is to always have a positive attitude and treat customers with respect. This helped me build strong relationships with many of my regulars, which led to more tips. At school, I learned the importance of teamwork and communication. These skills have helped me work well with others in group projects and understand what my coworkers need from me.”

17. We pride ourselves on our friendly staff. Tell me about a time when you went above and beyond for a customer.

Portillo’s is a restaurant that prides itself on its friendly staff. The hiring manager wants to make sure you have the personality and skills necessary to work with their team. Use this question as an opportunity to show them how you can be a great addition to their team.

Example: “I once waited tables at a small diner, where I was one of only two servers working on a busy Saturday night. We were short-staffed, so we had to take turns going into the kitchen for orders. One of my co-workers got stuck in the back, leaving me alone to serve all of our customers. It was overwhelming, but I made sure to greet every customer with a smile and ask if they needed anything else. By the end of the night, we had served over 200 people.”

18. What would you say is your greatest strength and weakness?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your personality and how you view yourself. They want to know that you are self-aware, so it’s important to be honest when answering this question. When answering, try to focus on a strength rather than a weakness.

Example: “My greatest strength is my ability to work well with others. I am always looking for ways to help others succeed, which has helped me build strong relationships at previous jobs. My biggest weakness is that I sometimes get overwhelmed by the amount of work I have to do in a day. I find that if I break down large projects into smaller tasks, I can stay organized and complete everything on time.”

19. Portillo’s is known for its amazing employees. What makes a good employee?

Portillo’s is a company that values its employees. They want to know what you think makes a good employee and how you would fit into their culture. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention specific qualities or skills that make an employee great.

Example: “A good employee is someone who is friendly, hardworking and dedicated to the job. I believe that being kind and respectful of others is important in any workplace. A good employee also has excellent communication skills and follows directions well. These are all traits that I have and am proud of.”

20. Tell us why you want to work at Portillo’s.

This question is a great way for the interviewer to learn more about your personality and see if you are passionate about working at Portillo’s. Your answer should include specific details about why you want to work there, what attracted you to the company and how you would fit in with the team.

Example: “I have always been a huge fan of Portillo’s food, so I was thrilled when I saw that this restaurant chain was hiring. I love the idea of being part of such an iconic brand and am excited to be able to contribute to its success. I also really admire the values of the company, which include providing excellent customer service and creating a fun and friendly work environment.”