Job Summary
The Restaurant Host/Hostess is the first point of contact for guests and plays a crucial role in creating a positive and welcoming atmosphere. They are responsible for greeting guests, managing seating arrangements, providing accurate wait times, and ensuring a smooth and efficient flow of service in the front‑of‑house. The ideal candidate will be friendly, organized, and possess excellent communication and customer service skills.
Responsibilities
- Guest Reception and Seating: warmly greet guests, escort to assigned tables, present menus, manage seating chart, accommodate preferences.
- Waitlist Management: record guest names and party sizes, provide realistic wait times, manage waiting area, notify guests when table ready.
- Communication and Coordination: maintain clear communication with servers, bussers, and management; answer phone calls, take reservations; relay feedback.
- Maintaining the Front‑of‑House: keep reception and waiting area clean, monitor restrooms, assist with light cleaning tasks.
- Customer Service: provide exceptional service, address inquiries, resolve minor issues, anticipate needs, thank guests upon departure.
- Administrative Tasks: assist with opening/closing duties, handle basic cash transactions or manage coat check, maintain knowledge of menu, hours, policies.
Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
- Previous experience in a customer service role, preferably in a restaurant or hospitality setting, is an asset.
- Excellent verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
- Strong organizational and multitasking abilities.
- Ability to remain calm and professional in a fast‑paced environment.
- Positive attitude and genuine desire to provide excellent customer service.
- Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
- Basic computer skills for managing reservations or waitlists.
Physical Requirements
- Stand and walk for long periods.
- Bend, stoop, and reach.
- Lift and carry up to 15–20 pounds occasionally.
- Communicate clearly and audibly.
Work Environment
- Fast‑paced restaurant environment.
- May involve working evenings, weekends, and holidays.
- Exposure to varying noise levels.