The Maître d' / Lead Host

Job Description

Job Description

Rich Labriola, the visionary behind Doughboy Restaurant Group, including Labriola Chicago, Labriola Oak Brook, and Stan's Donuts, is embarking on an exciting journey of expansion and refinement in the hospitality industry. With new concepts on the horizon and a commitment to setting new standards for excellence, we are seeking talented individuals to join us in shaping the future of hospitality.

As a restaurant host, you play a crucial role in ensuring a positive experience for guests from the moment they arrive until they leave. Here's an overview of the responsibilities and requirements typically associated with the role:

Position Overview
The Maître d' / Lead Host is responsible for managing reservations, coordinating seating flow, and ensuring every guest receives a warm, professional welcome. This leadership role sets the tone for service and supports the host team to maintain efficiency and hospitality standards.

Responsibilities:

Greeting Guests: Welcome guests as they arrive at the restaurant with a warm and friendly demeanor.

Seating Arrangements: Manage the seating chart efficiently, ensuring that guests are seated promptly and appropriately based on their preferences and party size.

Reservation Management: Keep track of reservations and ensure that reserved tables are ready when guests arrive.

Customer Service: Provide excellent customer service by addressing guests' inquiries, concerns, and special requests courteously and professionally.

Maintaining Waitlists: Manage waitlists during peak hours, accurately estimating wait times and keeping guests informed about their status.

Communication: Liaise with servers, kitchen staff, and management to coordinate table turnovers and ensure smooth operations.

Cleanliness and Organization: Maintain cleanliness and organization in the host/hostess station and waiting area, including keeping menus and promotional materials tidy.

Assisting with Special Events: Assist in coordinating special events or private dining arrangements as needed.

Handling Payments: Occasionally handle payments for guests who are settling bills at the host/hostess station.

Requirements:

Excellent Communication Skills: Strong verbal communication skills are essential for effectively interacting with guests and colleagues.

Customer-Oriented Attitude: A customer-centric approach and a genuine desire to provide exceptional service are vital.

Organizational Skills: Ability to multitask, prioritize, and stay organized in a fast-paced environment.

Flexibility: Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as restaurant hours may vary.

Previous Experience: While not always required, previous experience in a customer service or hospitality role is often preferred.

Familiarity with Reservation Systems: Basic knowledge of reservation management systems or the ability to quickly learn and adapt to them.

Food Safety Knowledge: Basic understanding of food safety practices and procedures is beneficial, particularly if assisting with handling payments or interacting with food items.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, and life benefits available
• 75% employer contribution to a single BCBS HMO or PPO medical plan
• 401k with dollar-for-dollar match up to 4% with immediate vesting
• Paid time off