Job Description

Hostess
Job Title: Host / Hostess
Department: Service / Front of House
Reports To: Floor Supervisor / Manager on Duty
Job Overview:
The Host/Hostess is the first and last point of contact for guests, setting the critical first impression for the entire restaurant. This role is responsible for managing the front door, greeting guests with genuine warmth, managing reservations, and orchestrating the flow of the dining room to ensure a smooth and organized seating process. A great hostess possesses excellent organizational skills, a calm demeanor under pressure, and the ability to make every guest feel welcome and valued.
Key Responsibilities:

• Guest Reception & Seating:
• Greet all guests immediately upon their arrival with a friendly and professional demeanor.
• Manage the reservation book (physical or digital), noting special occasions and requests.
• Accurately estimate and quote wait times to walk-in guests.
• Escort guests to their tables, presenting menus and wishing them an enjoyable meal.
• Manage the waitlist fairly and efficiently, seating guests in the order of arrival while balancing server sections.
• Dining Room Management & Communication:
• Maintain a clear and accurate view of table statuses (occupied, dirty, clean, reserved).
• Communicate effectively with the service team regarding new seatings, special requests, and table turns.
• Coordinate with bussers and servers to ensure tables are promptly reset for the next party.
• Balance the seating flow to prevent any one server from being overloaded simultaneously.
• Administrative & Clerical Duties:
• Answer incoming phone calls, answer questions, and take reservations or to-go orders.
• Manage the coat check area, if applicable.
• Maintain the cleanliness and organization of the host stand and entrance area.
• Thank guests as they leave and invite them to return.
• Problem Solving:
• Calmly manage guest expectations during busy periods when waits are long.
• Handle simple guest inquiries and complaints, escalating more complex issues to a manager.

Qualifications & Requirements:

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a warm and welcoming phone manner.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to multitask in a high-pressure environment.
• A professional and polished appearance.
• Basic computer skills for managing reservation systems (e.g., OpenTable, Resy).
• Ability to stand for long periods at the host stand.
• A team-oriented mindset and a positive attitude, even during stressful rushes.

Skills Required