Host - Aera

Oliver & Bonacini; Toronto; On-site; CAD 20,000 - 29,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Gratuities

Discounted gym membership

Access to Employee Assistance Program

50% dining discount at all O&B venues

Employee Referral Program

Job summary

Oliver & Bonacini's Aera in Toronto is seeking friendly hosts to welcome guests, manage reservations, and coordinate seating to optimize flow. You’ll contribute to a polished guest experience with warm, professional service and a keen eye for detail.

The role requires strong communication, multitasking in a fast-paced setting, and a passion for hospitality. Must have OpenTable experience and a valid Smart Serve certification; wage is $17.95 per hour plus shared gratuities.

Qualifications

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Able to multitask and stay calm in a fast-paced environment.
• Proactive, team-oriented and positive attitude.
• Professional appearance and welcoming presence.
• Experience with OpenTable or similar reservation systems is an asset.
• Smart Serve certification required.
• Legally eligible to work in Canada.

Responsibilities

• Welcome and seat guests in a warm, professional and engaging manner.
• Manage reservations, walk-ins and waitlists using OpenTable.
• Answer phone calls and assist guests with reservations and inquiries.
• Coordinate seating plans with managers, service staff and kitchen to optimize guest flow.
• Communicate clearly with front-of-house team during service.
• Provide accurate wait times and assist with special requests.

Skills

Excellent communication

Interpersonal skills

Organizational skills

Calm under pressure

Proactive and team-oriented

Warm, welcoming presence

Hospitality passion

OpenTable familiarity

Legally eligible to work in Canada

Tools

OpenTable

Job description

Perched high above Toronto with sweeping city views, Aera is a destination where elevated, globally inspired cuisine meets a sleek, social atmosphere. Joining us means becoming part of a team that blends sophistication with energy, delivering impeccable service in a setting that is as stylish as it is dynamic. You’ll engage with discerning guests, contribute to a refined dining experience, and be part of a hospitality team that values creativity, attention to detail, and the art of memorable service in one of the city’s most iconic venues.

What’s in it for you?

• Gratuities
• Discounted gym membership
• Access to our Employee Assistance Program for confidential support
• 50% dining discount at all O&B restaurants for you and up to three guests
• Employee Referral Program
• Join one of Canada’s leading hospitality companies, where a wide range of exciting internal career opportunities await!

Job Description

Our Hosts create a positive guest experience from the moment guests walk through the door. They keep the restaurant running smoothly and efficiently by managing guest flow, maximizing seating capacity and communicating with the entire team. They share their passion for food, beverage and hospitality with every guest, and leave a lasting impression through their professionalism and attention to detail.

The day to day:

• Welcome and seat guests in a warm, professional and engaging manner
• Manage reservations, walk-ins and waitlists using OpenTable
• Answer phone calls and assist guests with reservations and inquiries
• Monitor table rotation and coordinate seating plans with managers, service staff and the kitchen team to optimize guest flow
• Communicate clearly with the front-of-house team throughout service
• Provide accurate wait times and keep waiting guests informed
• Answer guest questions and assist with special requests and accommodations
• Support service recovery when needed, involving a manager as appropriate
• Keep the host stand, entrance and guest welcome areas clean, organized and presentation-ready
• Make sure menus are clean, up to date and well stocked
• Manage the coat check
• Thank guests and bid them farewell as they leave
• Assist with bussing tables and running food and beverages as needed
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• Previous experience as a host, or in hospitality or customer service, is an asset
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Able to multitask and stay calm under pressure in a fast-paced environment
• Proactive, team-oriented and positive attitude
• Professional appearance and a warm, welcoming presence
• A passion for hospitality and creating exceptional guest experiences
• Experience with OpenTable or other reservation and table management systems is an asset
• Valid Smart Serve Certification required
• Available to work flexible shifts, including evenings, weekends and holidays
• Legally eligible to work in Canada

Additional Information

This is a current vacancy.

Wage: $17.95 / hour + shared gratuities

AI Disclosure
To ensure a fair and efficient recruitment process, some aspects of candidate screening may be conducted using AI software. All assessments and outcomes are reviewed by our hiring team to provide thoughtful, personalized consideration. We are committed to transparency and respect, ensuring a welcoming experience for every candidate.

Accessibility & Accommodation
Oliver & Bonacini is committed to providing an inclusive recruitment process. If you require accommodation or support during any stage of the hiring process, please let us know. We will work with you to ensure your needs are met in a respectful and timely manner.

Equity, Diversity & Inclusion

We value and embrace diversity in all forms and encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply. Our recruitment practices are designed to ensure fairness, equity, and opportunity for every candidate.