Head Host - Foggy Bottom

Job Description

Job Description

Founding Farmers is seeking an experienced and polished hospitality professional to lead the front-of-house guest experience at one of the DC area's most recognized, farmer-owned restaurants. We're looking for someone who brings genuine presence, operational expertise, and a passion for exceptional, people-first hospitality. We are seeking candidates who have previous experience working in a high-volume, full-service restaurant as a Reservation Coordinator, Head Host, or Host Manager. Weekend availability is A MUST and having OpenTable experience is a PLUS.

Hourly Pay: $25-$30 based on experience

WHAT YOU NEED TO BE A HEAD HOST:

• Minimum 1 year experience in a high-volume, full-service restaurant — upscale casual or fine dining preferred
• Demonstrated experience leading or mentoring a host or front-of-house team
• Expert-level proficiency with OpenTable or a comparable reservation platform
• A calm, commanding presence under pressure with the ability to manage a busy floor with grace
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills with guests, staff, and management alike
• Deep appreciation for hospitality as a craft, and genuine pride in the guest experience
• Weekend availability is required
• Must be 18 or older
• Ability to stand for extended periods and perform the physical demands of the role

BENEFITS + PERKS:

• Competitive pay
• Health insurance plans available for as low as $130 per month after 90 days of employment
• Dental and vision plans
• Paid time off
• Discounted shift meal and generous dining discount
• Paid pregnancy and parental leave
• Voluntary benefits: short-term disability and accident insurance
• Free access to company massage therapist
• Discounted gym & yoga membership
• Free mental health therapy through our partner ComPsych, where employees and their immediate family members receive confidential sessions available virtually or in-person
• Training and career growth opportunities
• Free Employee Assistance Program with resources for legal, financial, and life needs

WHAT OUR HEAD HOST DOES:

• Serve as the first and last impression of the guest experience — setting the tone for every visit through polished, genuine hospitality
• Lead and support the host team, including coaching on guest service standards, communication, and floor flow
• Own the reservation and waitlist strategy, managing pacing and guest expectations with confidence and precision
• Manage all front-of-house systems using OpenTable, ensuring accurate, up-to-date reservation management throughout service
• Coordinate large party and special event seating logistics in partnership with managers and service staff
• Respond to guest requests and resolve concerns with professionalism and warmth
• Partner with the management team to maintain seamless communication and service flow throughout the restaurant
• Support dining room setup and maintenance, ensuring the space is guest-ready at all times
• Assist with to-go order accuracy and guest pickup experience
• Contribute to retail touchpoints including chocolate and coffee sales
• Additional duties as required

Farmers Restaurant Group was voted as one of the Best Places to Work across the Greater Washington, D.C. area. As a member of our team, you will be working in a lively, fast-paced work environment within a growing farmer-owned restaurant company that cares about great food and drink, thoughtful sourcing, preserving our lands and waterways for future generations, and creating a culture of never-ending learning and reinvention for our employees. No matter where you work in our company, you are on a career path with challenges and opportunities for continued professional development and growth, and we are committed to your health and overall well-being.