Captain

Captain | Cotogna

Cotogna is seeking an experienced and hospitality-driven Captain to join our front-of-house team.

The Captain is an integral part of the guest experience, providing knowledgeable, attentive, and genuine service while helping to maintain the energy and rhythm of the dining room. This role is ideal for someone who brings strong restaurant experience, confidence on the floor, and a natural approach to hospitality.

Our Captains work closely with the culinary, wine, and service teams to create an experience that is polished and professional while remaining warm, welcoming, and distinctly Cotogna.

Responsibilities

• Lead the guest experience throughout service, from welcoming the table through departure.
• Develop a thorough understanding of the food and beverage menus, including ingredients, preparation, sourcing, and wine.
• Guide guests through the menu and provide thoughtful recommendations.
• Accurately take and communicate food and beverage orders.
• Maintain awareness of timing and pacing throughout the guest experience.
• Work closely with food runners, bussers, sommeliers, bartenders, and the culinary team to ensure seamless service.
• Maintain tables and sections according to Cotogna service standards.
• Anticipate guest needs and respond with warmth, professionalism, and a sense of urgency.
• Participate in pre-service meetings, education, and ongoing training.
• Support opening, closing, and side-work responsibilities.
• Contribute to a positive, collaborative, and respectful team environment.

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a high-volume, quality-driven restaurant required.
• Fine dining or Michelin-recognized restaurant experience is a plus.
• Strong knowledge of food, wine, and hospitality.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.
• Ability to manage multiple tables while maintaining attention to detail.
• Confident, polished, and genuinely warm approach to guest service.
• Strong sense of teamwork and willingness to support all areas of the dining room.
• Ability to remain composed and effective in a fast-paced environment.
• Availability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required.

About Cotogna

Cotogna is Chef Michael Tusk and Lindsay Tusk’s celebrated Italian restaurant in San Francisco’s Jackson Square neighborhood. The menu highlights seasonal ingredients through house-made pastas, wood-fired dishes, and regional Italian cooking.

Our approach to hospitality is knowledgeable and attentive without being overly formal. We value genuine connections with our guests, strong teamwork, curiosity, and a shared commitment to creating an exceptional restaurant experience.

We are looking for a Captain who is passionate about hospitality and excited to grow as part of the Cotogna and Quince & Co. team.