Host / Hostess

Job Overview

Responsibilities  

In an upscale steakhouse like CHR, the host is the "director of first impressions." Your primary role is to manage the flow of the dining room and ensure a seamless arrival experience.

• Guest Reception: Warmly greeting guests upon entry and escorting them to their tables.
• Reservation Management: Managing the reservation system (OpenTable), including taking phone reservations and managing waitlists during peak times.
• Table Management: Strategically assigning tables to servers to ensure an even distribution of workload and maintaining pacing in the dining room.
• Communication: Acting as the primary point of contact between the dining room, kitchen, and management to relay VIP arrivals, special requests, or potential delays.
• Setting the Ambiance: Monitoring the lobby and dining room environment, ensuring the entrance is clean, menus are tidy, and the music/lighting levels are appropriate.

Skills  

To be successful in a high-end environment, you will need to demonstrate strong hospitality and organizational skills:

• Communication & Poise: Ability to speak clearly, maintain professional composure under pressure, and handle guest concerns or complaints with grace.
• Technology Proficiency: Experience with restaurant POS and reservation management software.
• Multitasking: The ability to juggle multiple tasks simultaneously—answering phones, checking in reservations, and managing the floor plan.
• Attention to Detail: Recognizing regulars, VIPs, or guests with noted dietary restrictions and ensuring their needs are met before they even reach their table.
• Professionalism: Maintaining a polished appearance and high standards of service, which is essential for an upscale dining establishment.

Benefits  

Benefits at independent, upscale restaurants like CHR can vary significantly compared to large corporate chains. While individual offerings depend on their current employment packages, common benefits in the industry include:

• Competitive Hourly Wage: Often above the industry standard for fast-casual roles due to the level of service required.
• Tip Pooling: Depending on the house policy, hosts may receive a portion of the tip pool or service charges.
• Shift Meals: Complimentary or discounted meals during or after shifts.
• Professional Development: Training in wine knowledge, high-end hospitality standards, and restaurant operations management, which can be valuable for a career in the hospitality industry.
• Scheduling Flexibility: Upscale restaurants often prioritize staff retention, which may lead to more consistent or accommodating schedules compared to high-turnover establishments.