Front of House Manager

Cain Partners; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Cain Partners’ Washington DC restaurant is seeking an experienced Maitre d' to command the front door, lead the host team, and deliver an exceptional VIP dining experience. You will know regulars by name, manage high-demand reservations, and ensure every arrival feels effortless.

You’ll take ownership of guest relations, mentor the host team, and work with management to maintain seamless service. This role thrives in a bustling, premium dining environment with a strong guest culture.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as Maitre d' or senior Head Host in premium dining.
• Excellent guest-facing presence and confident room leadership.
• Strong knowledge of reservations and guest flow in high-demand venues.

Responsibilities

• Own reservations, guest relations, and the host team.
• Lead front-of-house to ensure a flawless guest experience.
• Collaborate with management to keep service running smoothly.
• Manage high-profile VIP arrivals with poise and discretion.

Skills

VIP guest service

Reservations management

Team leadership

Strong presence & communication

Relationship building

Tools

OpenTable

Resy

Opera

Job description

The Role

This is much more than managing a host desk. We want someone who can command the front door, knows how to work a busy dining room and understands the importance of making every guest feel like a VIP.

You’ll be the person who knows the regulars by name, recognises the important reservations, builds relationships with the right people and makes sure the entire arrival experience feels effortless.

You’ll take ownership of reservations, guest relations and the host team, working closely with the wider management team to keep everything running seamlessly. Whether it’s a fully booked Saturday night, a high-profile VIP arrival or a last‑minute reservation request, you’ll know how to handle it.

Who We're Looking For

• An experienced Maitre d' or senior Head Host from a high-end restaurant, premium steakhouse or luxury dining environment.
• Someone with real personality, presence and confidence who naturally commands a room.
• Brilliant with guests, particularly VIPs, regular clientele and high-profile individuals.
• Strong reservations knowledge, with an understanding of how to manage a busy, high-demand restaurant.
• A natural relationship builder who understands the importance of remembering the details and making guests feel genuinely valued.
• Confident leading a host team and setting the standard for the front-of-house experience.
• Someone who thrives on the energy of a busy restaurant and can keep standards high without ever losing the personal touch.

The Opportunity

An exciting opportunity to be part of a major new restaurant opening in Washington DC, joining an established international hospitality group with a strong reputation in the premium dining market.

This is a chance to make your mark from day one, build a fantastic guest culture and be part of a restaurant with real ambition.

Interested?