Restaurant & Bar Host

Parker's Tavern; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 10,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A renowned restaurant in Cambridge is looking for a Restaurant & Bar Host. In this role, you will be the first point of contact for guests, managing reservations and ensuring a smooth service in the restaurant and bar. The ideal candidate should have experience in a luxury environment with excellent communication and guest service skills. This position offers competitive pay and great perks including free meals and discounts across the Marriott portfolio.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Free meals on duty

Team Member Parties

Room and F&B discounts across the Marriott portfolio

Referral bonus up to £400

Qualifications

• Previous host/hostess or front-of-house experience preferred.
• Able to manage reservations systems efficiently.
• Comfortable working during busy periods.

Responsibilities

• Welcome and escort guests to their tables.
• Manage reservations, walk-ins, and waitlists efficiently.
• Ensure the reception area is organised and polished.

Skills

Exceptional communication skills

Guest service skills

Reservation management

Tools

OpenTable

Job description

ABOUT US

University Arms is a 192-bedroom design-led Hotel situated in the heart of Cambridge, United Kingdom. Overlooking Parker’s Piece is the Hotel’s quintessentially British Restaurant and Bar Parker’s Tavern, Library Lounge, and beautiful 272 square metre wood panelled Ballroom.

Opened in 1834 as a Coaching Inn, University Arms is Cambridge’s oldest Hotel. For 180 years, the Hotel was added to, updated, and modernised in line with the age; however, it was the reopening in 2018 after a four-year £80m full renovation that really positioned the Hotel. It is now Cambridge's ‘go to’ destination, alluring visitors with the promise of a sense of modern luxury.

WHAT WILL YOU BE DOING

As a Restaurant & Bar Host, you will be the first point of contact for guests, creating a positive and polished first impression. You will manage reservations, greet and seat guests, and support the smooth flow of both restaurant and bar service at all times.

THE DUTIES

• Warmly welcome and escort guests to their tables in the restaurant and bar
• Manage reservations, walk-ins, waitlists, and guest flow efficiently
• Maintain a polished and organised reception/host desk area
• Communicate effectively with the restaurant, bar, and management teams
• Provide accurate information about menus, promotions, and services
• Handle guest enquiries, requests, and feedback with professionalism
• Assist with coordinating VIP arrivals, special occasions, and large groups
• Take credit card payments and pre-orders for large groups and update the pastry team daily for any afternoon tea bookings.
• Ensure guest seating is optimised to maximise experience and revenue
• Support opening, closing, and daily host duties as required

WHAT ARE WE LOOKING FOR IN YOU

• Have previous host/hostess or front-of-house experience (luxury environment preferred)
• Demonstrate exceptional communication and guest service skills
• Present yourself with confidence, warmth, and impeccable grooming
• Stay calm and organised during busy periods
• Are comfortable managing reservations systems (e.g., OpenTable)
• Are flexible to work evenings, weekends, and public holidays

THE PERKS

As well as the opportunity to work with a fantastic team in an exceptional property, the position comes with:

• Competitive salary
• Free meals on duty
• Team Member Parties
• Room and F&B discounts across the Marriott portfolio
• Refer a friend – who do you know who could be interested in a new role? When they are placed, you could earn up to £400 for referring them!

RIGHT TO WORK

In line with the requirements of UK immigration legislation, all applicants must be eligible to live and work in the UK. Documentary evidence of eligibility to work will be required from candidates as part of the recruitment process.