Host/ Food Runner

Description

Who We Are:

Acme Hospitality owns and operates a collection of highly acclaimed and award-winning food & beverage concepts and boutique hotels throughout California. In addition to a collection of restaurants and hotels, we create hospitality experiences that inspire people, create a sense of camaraderie, and make people happy.

Mission & Core Values

Above all else, we are committed to providing our team members with a work environment and experience that we can be proud of. Our Core Values of Delivering Excellence, Embrace Originality, Act with Integrity and Celebrate Community are the essential ingredients for success.

Position Summary

Food Runner or Expeditor plays a crucial role in ensuring the smooth and efficient flow of food service in an upscale restaurant or fine dining establishment. The Food Runner works closely with the kitchen and waitstaff to deliver dishes to guests accurately and in a timely manner. Food Runners contribute to the guest experience, answer questions and assist in table maintenance.

Host is responsible for providing guests with a warm welcome and ensuring a smooth and enjoyable dining experience. Hosts are often the first point of contact for guests and play a crucial role in creating a positive first impression.

We are ideally looking for a candidate that is interested in working host and food running shifts.

Food Runner Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the kitchen staff to understand the timing and sequence of food preparation for each table.
• Ensure that all dishes leaving the kitchen are properly plated, garnished, and meet the presentation standards of the establishment.
• Communicate effectively with the kitchen and waitstaff to coordinate the delivery of food to the correct tables.
• Carry multiple plates and trays of food, ensuring that they are balanced and delivered without spills or accidents.
• Present dishes to guests in an attentive and professional manner, ensuring accuracy and order consistency.
• Verify that all accompanying items, such as sauces, condiments, and side dishes, are included with each order.
• Provide exceptional customer service by promptly addressing any guest requests or concerns related to the food being served.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area, including ensuring that the food station is properly stocked with necessary items.
• Assist in clearing and resetting tables, removing used dishes, glassware, and utensils in a discreet and efficient manner. Collaborate with the waitstaff to ensure proper table setup, including the placement of linens, cutlery, and glassware.
• Follow all health and safety regulations, including proper food handling and sanitation practices.
• Assist in restocking and rotating inventory, including items such as plates, napkins, and condiments.
• Assist in maintaining the cleanliness and organization of the dining area, including sweeping, mopping, and wiping surfaces.
• Support other team members as needed, including helping with special events or providing assistance in other areas of the restaurant.
• Maintain a positive and professional attitude, contributing to a harmonious and efficient work environment.
  
  

Host Responsibilities

• Greet guests upon arrival, warmly welcoming them to the restaurant and creating a positive first impression.
• Escort guests to their assigned tables, ensuring they are seated comfortably and providing any assistance they may need.
• Manage the waitlist efficiently, maintaining accurate records of reservations and walk-in guests.
• Provide accurate wait time estimates to guests and inform them of any delays or special arrangements.
• Coordinate with the waitstaff and kitchen to ensure a smooth and timely seating process.
• Answer telephone calls and respond to inquiries regarding reservations, menu items, and restaurant services in a friendly and knowledgeable manner.
• Assist in taking and confirming reservations, ensuring accurate information is recorded.
• Maintain a clean and organized host stand or reception area, including keeping menus, reservation books, and other supplies readily available.
• Monitor the dining area to ensure that tables are properly set and organized, and that the ambiance is suitable for guests.
• Communicate effectively with the waitstaff and management regarding table availability, special requests, and guest preferences.
• Provide guests with menus, wine lists, or other requested information, explaining any specials or chef recommendations.
• Manage guest flow and seating arrangements to optimize table turnover and maximize seating capacity.
• Assist in coordinating special events or private dining reservations, ensuring all necessary arrangements are made.
• Maintain restrooms by cleaning and stocking all necessary supplies regularly.
• Handle guest concerns or complaints in a professional and timely manner, escalating issues to management when necessary.
• Maintain a high level of professionalism, courtesy, and hospitality in all interactions with guests.
  
  

Requirements

Food Runner Requirements:

• Previous experience as a Food Runner or Server Assistant in a fine dining or upscale restaurant is preferred.
• Knowledge of fine dining etiquette and service standards.
• Excellent communication skills to effectively communicate with the kitchen staff, waitstaff, and guests.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and remain calm under pressure.
• Physical stamina and ability to carry and balance multiple plates and trays of food.
• Attention to detail to ensure accurate and consistent delivery of orders.
• Customer service-oriented mindset with a focus on providing exceptional dining experiences.
• Flexibility to work in shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Professional and polished appearance, adhering to dress code and grooming standards.
• Ability to work well in a team and collaborate effectively with colleagues.
• Basic knowledge of food safety and sanitation regulations.
• Willingness to learn and take direction from supervisors or managers.
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to handle and resolve guest concerns or complaints in a professional manner.
• Positive attitude and willingness to contribute to the overall success of the restaurant.
• RBS or similar certification for responsible alcohol service is required.
• Current Food Handler Certification
  
  

Host Requirements

• Previous experience as a Host or Hostess in a fine dining or upscale restaurant is preferred.
• Excellent customer service and communication skills to interact with guests in a friendly and professional manner.
• Professional and polished appearance, adhering to dress code and grooming standards.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Strong organizational skills to manage reservations, waitlists, and seating arrangements efficiently.
• Familiarity with reservation management systems and basic computer skills.
• Flexibility to work in shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Positive attitude and ability to remain calm under pressure.
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Knowledge of fine dining etiquette and service standards.
• Ability to work well in a team and collaborate effectively with colleagues.
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in managing reservations and guest information.
• Ability to handle guest concerns or complaints in a professional and diplomatic manner.
• Familiarity with the local area and knowledge of nearby attractions or services that may be of interest to guests.
• Active Food Handler Certification is required.
  
  

Job Status

Non-Exempt

Important Notice

This job description is not an exclusive or exhaustive list of all job functions that an Acme Hospitality Team Member in this position may be asked to perform from time to time. Based on business needs or Guest service objectives, you may also be asked to perform other duties or tasks in addition to those listed above and will be required to have completed required training associated with the other duties or tasks.

Salary Description

$16.50/hour plus tips