Server

SUZU ATH LLC; Cincinnati (OH); On-site; USD 17,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

SUZU Hospitality in Cincinnati, OH seeks an experienced Server to deliver refined Japanese fine-dining service. You will guide guests through the menu, suggest pairings, and ensure each course is presented with precision and care.

The role emphasizes warmth, professionalism, and hospitality within a fast-paced, guest-focused team. Ideal candidates have 2+ years of upscale restaurant experience, strong knowledge of sake and beverage pairings, and the ability to work collaboratively in a leading

Qualifications

• 2+ years of restaurant serving experience, fine dining or upscale Japanese preferred.
• Knowledge of sake, wine and beverage pairings is a strong plus.
• Proficient with POS systems and cash handling.
• Excellent communication, multitasking, and guest-relations skills.
• Detail-oriented and able to thrive in a fast-paced fine-dining environment.
• Willingness to learn Japanese service styles and hospitality standards.

Responsibilities

• Greet guests warmly and provide professional hospitality throughout the visit.
• Guide guests through the menu with thoughtful recommendations.
• Anticipate guest needs and personalize the experience.
• Manage sections with pacing and guest satisfaction.
• Take orders, enter into POS, and coordinate with kitchen and staff.
• Deliver dishes to fine-dining standards and handle checkout gracefully.
• Communicate clearly with Hosts, Runners, Bussers, Bartenders, and Management.

Skills

Fine dining serving

POS systems

Sake knowledge

Attention to detail

Guest relations

Job description

Position Type: Non-Exempt, Full-Time / Part-Time

About SUZU Hospitality

SUZU is our vision of modern Japanese hospitality and cuisine, embodying the harmony between innovation and timeless tradition. Located in Madisonville, Cincinnati, SUZU is inspired by the craftsmanship, flavors, and modern dining culture of Japan.

As part of a growing hospitality group with restaurants across the United States, we are committed to delivering exceptional food, authentic hospitality, and a guest experience that is seamless, thoughtful, and inviting.

Whether in the front of house or back of house, every team member plays an essential role in creating an environment built on professionalism, respect, teamwork, and continuous growth.

SUZU Hospitality is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and we are proud to foster an inclusive workplace where all individuals have the opportunity to thrive.

Position Summary

The Server is the primary point of contact for guests and the face of the SUZU dining experience. This role is responsible for delivering refined, knowledgeable, and genuinely warm Japanese fine-dining service — guiding guests through the menu, recommending food and beverage pairings, and ensuring every course is delivered with precision and care. The ideal candidate is polished, hospitality-driven, detail-oriented, and passionate about Japanese cuisine and culture.

Compensation

$5.50 per hour base wage plus tips. This is a tipped position and an Ohio tip credit applies; combined cash wages and tips are guaranteed to equal at least Ohio’s full minimum wage of $11.00 per hour, and typically exceed it substantially with tips.

Key Responsibilities

Guest Experience & Service

• Greet and care for guests with warmth, professionalism, and genuine hospitality throughout their visit
• Guide guests through the menu, answering questions and offering thoughtful recommendations
• Anticipate guest needs and personalize the experience to create memorable moments
• Manage assigned sections with attention to detail, pacing, and overall guest satisfaction

Menu & Beverage Knowledge

• Develop deep knowledge of all food items, ingredients, preparation methods, and Japanese culinary traditions
• Learn the beverage program, including sake, wine, beer, and signature cocktails, to make confident pairings
• Accurately describe allergens, dietary accommodations, and chef recommendations
• Stay current on seasonal and special menu offerings

Service Execution & Pacing

• Take accurate food and beverage orders and enter them correctly into the POS system
• Coordinate course pacing with the kitchen, runners, and service assistants for seamless flow
• Deliver and present dishes to fine-dining standards, ensuring accuracy and presentation
• Process payments accurately and handle the checkout experience graciously

Coordination & Teamwork

• Communicate clearly with Hosts, Runners, Bussers, Bartenders, and Management
• Support pre-service setup, side work, and station readiness
• Assist teammates as needed to ensure a unified, seamless service

Standards & Compliance

• Maintain a polished appearance and professional demeanor at all times
• Follow all sanitation, hygiene, safety, and responsible alcohol service protocols
• Adhere to all SUZU service standards and Ohio service regulations

Qualifications

• 2+ years of restaurant serving experience (fine dining or upscale Japanese preferred)
• Knowledge of sake, wine, and beverage pairings a strong plus
• Proficiency with POS systems and cash/payment handling
• Excellent communication, multitasking, and guest-relations skills
• Strong attention to detail and ability to thrive in a fast-paced fine-dining environment
• Willingness to learn and embrace Japanese service styles and hospitality standards
• Competitive hourly pay + tips
• Training in fine-dining service, Japanese hospitality, sake and beverage education, and guest etiquette
• Opportunities to grow into Lead Server, Service Captain, Omakase Server, or FOH Management roles
• Professional, respectful, and supportive environment