Host/Hostess - The Café

Job Description

Job Description

Company Description

Fairmont Hotels & Resorts is a renowned luxury hotel brand with a global presence and a commitment to creating lasting memories for our guests. With over 30,000 colleagues worldwide, we are dedicated to delivering exceptional service, fostering a culture of excellence, and making special happen.

Hotel Overview:

Located in the heart of downtown Fairmont New Orleans will be an impressive new addition to Fairmont’s luxury portfolio, offering 250 luxury guest rooms, four food & drink venues, a rooftop pool with expansive views of the city, more than 19,000 square feet of function space, and a 10,000 square-foot spa.

This property is destined to become an illustrious destination in the Central Business District, nearby the city’s renowned and historic French Quarter.

• Warmly greet and welcome guests upon arrival while creating a positive and professional first impression. 
• Serve as an ambassador of The Café by Chef Emeril and Fairmont New Orleans by delivering genuine, approachable New Orleans hospitality. 
• Manage reservations, seating assignments, waitlists, and guest preferences using the designated reservation system. 
• Escort guests to tables and provide menus while communicating relevant information about The Café. 
• Maintain knowledge of menu offerings, daily features, beverages, coffee and espresso selections, hours of operation, and restaurant amenities. 
• Develop knowledge of Chef Emeril Lagasse's culinary philosophy and the New Orleans influences represented throughout The Café. 
• Confidently answer guest questions and provide appropriate information regarding menu items and restaurant offerings. 
• Monitor dining room activity and coordinate closely with Servers, Culinary, Management, and other Food & Beverage colleagues to maintain smooth service flow. 
• Manage table rotations and seating assignments while considering guest preferences and operational needs. 
• Communicate estimated wait times accurately and manage guest expectations during periods of high volume. 
• Maintain accurate waitlists and communicate with guests regarding table availability. 
• Answer telephone calls promptly and professionally while assisting with reservations, guest inquiries, and operational communications. 
• Respond to guest requests, concerns, and special accommodations with warmth, professionalism, and discretion. 
• Assist with guest recovery efforts and involve leadership when appropriate. 
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the host stand, entrance, waiting areas, and dining spaces. 
• Ensure menus, guest-facing materials, and seating areas are clean and properly presented. 
• Assist with VIP guests, special occasions, hotel events, and other elevated guest experiences. 
• Maintain familiarity with Fairmont New Orleans amenities, services, outlets, events, and local attractions to assist guests. 
• Support the outlet during peak periods and high-volume service while maintaining composure and hospitality standards. 
• Assist with opening and closing duties, stocking, cleaning, and other operational responsibilities. 
• Maintain a polished and professional appearance consistent with Fairmont New Orleans standards. 
• Follow all hotel, restaurant, safety, sanitation, and service policies and procedures. 
• Uphold the hospitality and culinary standards associated with Chef Emeril Lagasse and Fairmont New Orleans. 
• Perform additional duties as assigned. 

• Previous host/hostess, restaurant, café, hotel, hospitality, or guest service experience preferred. 
• Luxury hotel or upscale dining experience is an asset. 
• Passion for hospitality, food, beverage, and creating exceptional guest experiences. 
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. 
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities. 
• Ability to remain professional, composed, and welcoming in a fast-paced environment. 
• Professional appearance and polished demeanor required. 
• Strong guest service mindset with the ability to create positive and memorable interactions. 
• Basic computer skills and familiarity with reservation or POS systems preferred. 
• Ability to learn and communicate detailed menu and outlet information. 
• Strong teamwork and communication skills. 
• Knowledge of New Orleans hospitality, culture, and local attractions is an asset. 
• Ability to work flexible schedules, including mornings, evenings, weekends, holidays, and extended shifts as operationally required. 
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States. 

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.