Host

Restaurant Host

Downtown L.A. Proper Hotel has masterfully transformed a Renaissance Revival landmark building, part of Curlett & Beelman's iconic architectural stamp on L.A. Designer Kelly Wearstler seamlessly elevates 148 rooms and suites with compelling creative design, vintage California influences, and a trove of original works by L.A. artists. Discover a trio of inviting dining destinations in one historic location, helmed by James Beard Award-winners Suzanne Goin and Caroline Styne, along with a refined split-level rooftop pool-deck with uninterrupted views of city lights; plus 12,000 square feet of event spaces, including two suites that integrate the building's sporting-club past by repurposing the vintage basketball court and indoor pool into inspired, unexpected design elements.

The Restaurant Host is the first point of contact for guests upon arrival, responsible for providing a warm, welcoming, and efficient experience from the moment they enter the restaurant. You will manage reservations, greet guests, manage waitlists, and coordinate seating arrangements to ensure that guests are seated promptly and comfortably. As a key member of the front-of-house team, you will also assist with guest inquiries, maintain the flow of service, and ensure that the dining area is organized and prepared for each shift.

Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Guest Greeting & Reception:
  1. Greet guests with a friendly, professional demeanor as they arrive at the restaurant, ensuring they feel welcomed and valued.
  2. Maintain a positive and helpful attitude, providing guests with information about the restaurant's menu, specials, and wait times.
  3. Escort guests to their designated tables, assist with seating arrangements, and ensure that they are comfortable.
  4. Establish rapport with guests by remembering their preferences and special requests to enhance their dining experience.
• Reservations & Waitlist Management:
  1. Manage restaurant reservations through phone, email, or reservation system, ensuring accuracy in booking details (e.g., guest count, special requests).
  2. Maintain and update the waitlist, notifying guests promptly when their table is ready.
  3. Monitor dining room flow, balancing the seating arrangements and ensuring timely seating of guests, especially during peak hours.
• Coordination & Communication:
  1. Coordinate with the front-of-house and kitchen teams to ensure smooth guest transitions, seating, and timely service.
  2. Communicate with the server team to ensure that they are informed of guest preferences, special requests, or any dietary restrictions.
  3. Assist in managing guest flow during peak dining times to prevent bottlenecks and ensure that all guests are seated in a timely manner.
  4. Answer phone calls and address guest inquiries regarding menu items, wait times, special events, and restaurant policies.
• Guest Experience & Problem Resolution:
  1. Monitor the dining area to ensure guests are enjoying their experience, and proactively address any guest concerns or needs.
  2. Handle guest complaints or issues with professionalism, escalating to management if necessary, and ensuring the issue is resolved swiftly and satisfactorily.
  3. Maintain a calm and composed demeanor, even during busy or high-pressure periods, ensuring a positive environment for both guests and staff.
• Team Support:
  1. Work closely with the server, bartender, and management teams to ensure smooth operations and guest satisfaction.
  2. Assist in the training of new hosts, sharing best practices for guest service and operations.
  3. Provide support during busy times by helping to answer phones, assist with coat checks, or help guests with additional requests.

Education and/or Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Previous experience in a customer service or hospitality role, particularly in a restaurant, is preferred.
• Familiarity with reservation systems, phone etiquette, and customer service standards.
• Experience handling guest inquiries, managing waitlists, and working in a high-volume environment is a plus.

Skills/Specialized Knowledge

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage with guests and team members in a friendly and professional manner.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to multitask effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to maintain composure and professionalism during busy dining hours and high-stress situations.
• Proficient in handling guest reservations, managing waitlists, and using reservation software or systems.

Physical Demands

• Ability to stand, walk, and move throughout the restaurant for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and carry items such as menus, supplies, or occasionally heavier items like seating materials.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-energy environment with frequent interaction with guests.

Company Overview

Proper Hospitality is made up of a diverse group of passionate individuals who share a common love for hotels and the art of hospitality. Our philosophy is simple: There is a right way to do things and anything less just isn't proper. We are seeking out the best of the best from inside and outside of the industry to work alongside us as we grow a new kind of lifestyle Hospitality Company inspired by a centuries-old tradition. The work is challenging and fast-paced but rewarding above all.

Proper Hospitality provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, gender, gender identity or expression, genetics, or any other federal/state protected category.

Proper Hospitality will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with local Fair Chance Hiring Ordinances.