Job Summary:
The Restaurant Host/Hostess is the first point of contact for guests and plays a crucial role in creating a positive and welcoming atmosphere. They are responsible for greeting guests, managing seating arrangements, providing accurate wait times, and ensuring a smooth and efficient flow of service in the front-of-house. The ideal candidate will be friendly, organized, and possess excellent communication and customer service skills.
Responsibilities:
Guest Reception and Seating: Warmly greet guests upon arrival with a smile and professional demeanor. Escort guests to their assigned tables promptly and efficiently. Present menus and inform guests of any specials or promotions. Manage the seating chart to optimize table utilization and minimize wait times. Accommodate guest preferences for seating whenever possible.
Waitlist Management: Accurately record guest names and party sizes on the waitlist. Provide realistic and courteous estimates of wait times. Manage the waiting area, ensuring guests are comfortable. Notify guests promptly when their table is ready.
Communication and Coordination: Maintain clear and effective communication with servers, bussers, and management regarding table availability and guest needs. Answer phone calls professionally and courteously, taking reservations, providing information, and answering inquiries. Relay guest feedback or concerns to the appropriate personnel.
Maintaining the Front-of-House: Ensure the reception area and waiting area are clean, organized, and presentable at all times. Monitor restrooms and inform staff of any maintenance needs. Assist with light cleaning tasks as needed.
Customer Service: Provide exceptional customer service, addressing guest inquiries and resolving minor issues with a positive attitude. Anticipate guest needs and proactively offer assistance. Thank guests upon departure and invite them to return.
Administrative Tasks: Assist with opening and closing duties as assigned. May handle basic cash transactions or manage coat check. Maintain a thorough knowledge of the restaurant's menu, hours of operation, and policies.
Qualifications:
High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
Previous experience in a customer service role, preferably in a restaurant or hospitality setting, is an asset.
Excellent verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
Strong organizational and multitasking abilities.
Ability to remain calm and professional in a fast-paced environment.
Positive attitude and a genuine desire to provide excellent customer service.
Basic computer skills for managing reservations or waitlists (may vary depending on the restaurant's system).
Physical Requirements:
Ability to stand and walk for long periods.
Ability to bend, stoop, and reach.
Ability to lift and carry up to 15-20 pounds occasionally (e.g., menus, supplies).
Ability to communicate clearly and audibly.
Work Environment: Fast-paced restaurant environment. May involve working evenings, weekends, and holidays. Exposure to varying noise levels.
