Host

Dacha Beer Garden; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

An upscale dining establishment in Washington, DC is seeking a Host to ensure a welcoming and organized dining experience for guests. The ideal candidate will have at least 2 years of hosting experience in fine-dining settings, proficient in reservation systems like OpenTable and Resy. Responsibilities include managing guest flow, seating arrangements, and providing outstanding service. Evening, weekend, and holiday availability is necessary, making it a vibrant role for those who thrive in lively environments.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years of hosting experience in fine-dining or upscale casual restaurants required.
• Professional appearance, punctuality, and team-oriented attitude.
• Ability to handle guest requests and manage reservation systems.

Responsibilities

• Greet guests warmly and manage the reservation system.
• Ensure timely seating and communicate wait times clearly.
• Assist servers and maintain a tidy host stand.

Skills

Exceptional communication skills

Professionalism

Warm demeanor

Organizational skills

Guest service skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent hospitality experience

Tools

OpenTable

Resy

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY

The Host is the first and last point of contact for every guest and plays a vital role in creating a welcoming and organized dining experience. As the face of the establishment, the Host ensures smooth guest flow, manages reservations, and supports communication between the front desk, servers, and management. This position requires exceptional communication skills, professionalism, and a warm, polished demeanor. A great Host sets the tone for the entire service — combining grace under pressure with genuine hospitality.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

• Embody and represent the company’s core values through professionalism, warmth, and attentive guest care.
• Provide friendly, engaging, and efficient service to all guests upon arrival, during their visit, and as they depart.
• Manage the reservation system (OpenTable/Resy) — take, confirm, and organize reservations accurately.
• Greet guests warmly and ensure they are seated promptly, balancing walk-ins and reservations with attention to guest expectations and flow of service.
• Communicate wait times clearly and courteously, maintaining transparency and guest satisfaction.
• Keep accurate track of table availability and coordinate seating assignments with servers and managers.
• Communicate special guest requests, allergies, or celebrations to the appropriate team members.
• Answer incoming phone calls with professionalism and provide accurate information regarding menus, hours, and policies.
• Manage the coat check or storage area, ensuring guests’ personal belongings are handled securely and with care.
• Assist with opening and closing duties, including maintaining a tidy and organized host stand and entrance area.
• Maintain a neat, professional appearance and clean uniform throughout each shift.
• Support restaurant operations by assisting servers, runners, and managers as needed.
• Follow all safety, sanitation, and alcohol service policies.
• Be available for evening, late‑night, weekend, and holiday shifts as required by business volume.

Physical Requirements

• Stand and walk for the entire duration of the shift.
• Reach, bend, and lift as necessary to assist guests and team members.
• Communicate clearly in person and over the phone.
• Maintain focus and poise in a fast‑paced, high‑volume environment.
• Work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required by business needs.

Education And Experience

• Minimum 2 years of hosting experience in fine‑dining or upscale casual restaurants required.
• Proficiency with OpenTable and Resy.
• Excellent verbal communication and guest service skills.
• Professional appearance, punctuality, and team‑oriented attitude.
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent hospitality experience preferred.

DISCLAIMER

Failure to adhere to company standards or policies may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination.

This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of duties or qualifications. Management reserves the right to modify responsibilities or reassign duties as needed.