Host

Host Job Description

Hosts are responsible for creating a welcoming first impression, managing guest flow, and supporting smooth dining room operations. This role serves as a key communication link between guests, servers, kitchen staff, and management to ensure a positive and efficient guest experience.

Host Essential Duties and Responsibilities 

• Greet guests warmly upon arrival and provide menus.

• Seat guests at tables or waiting areas based on party size, reservations, accessibility needs, and dining room rotation.

• Assign patrons to tables in accordance with established rotation guidelines to ensure balanced server sections.

• Receive, record, and manage dining reservations accurately.

• Respond to guest inquiries as needed.

• Speak with guests to ensure satisfaction with service, respond to concerns or complaints, and provide assistance as appropriate.

• Maintain ongoing communication with kitchen staff, servers, and management to ensure dining details are handled properly.

• Inform guests of restaurant specialties, features, and offerings.

• Direct guests to coatrooms, restrooms, waiting areas, or lounges as needed.

• Take and prepare to-go orders when assigned, ensuring accuracy and proper guest communication.

• Operate the POS system or cash register as assigned to accept payments for food, beverages, or to-go orders.

• Assist other restaurant team members by serving food or beverages, bussing tables, or supporting service during peak periods.

• Inspect dining and serving areas to ensure cleanliness, organization, and proper setup.

• Inspect restrooms for cleanliness and availability of supplies and notify management of any issues.

• Maintain adequate supplies of menus, host stand materials, and guest-facing resources.

• Support opening and closing duties, including organizing the host stand and front-of-house areas.

• Assist with coordinating dining room activities to ensure prompt and courteous service.

• Communicate guest needs, service issues, or operational concerns to management promptly.

• Perform other reasonable duties as assigned to support restaurant operations and guest service.

Professional Expectations

• Maintain a professional appearance and demeanor at all times.

• Use clear, courteous, and brand-aligned communication with guests and coworkers.

• Adhere to all company policies, including attendance, conduct, cell phone usage, and safety standards.

• Work collaboratively with all departments to support a positive and efficient work environment

Timekeeping and Pay

• Hosts must accurately record all hours worked through the timekeeping system.

• Off-the-clock work is strictly prohibited.

• Manager approval is required for any shift extensions.

• Hosts may participate in an approved tip pool, subject to the Company’s tip pooling policy.

• Hosts are paid overtime at the applicable regular rate, with the correct tip credit applied for straight-time hours as required by law.

Position Requirements

• Prior experience in fine dining or upscale service strongly preferred.

• Excellent communication and customer service skills.

• Ability to multitask and work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.

• Professional appearance and adherence to company grooming standards.

• Accuracy when handling all technology systems (Toast, Open Table, etc…)

• Ability to stand, walk, and carry trays for extended periods.

Other Duties

This job description is intended to describe the general requirements of the position. Management may assign additional related duties within compliance standards.