Host/Hostess

DESCRIPTION

Host / Hostess

Position Summary

The Host/Hostess is the first and last impression for every guest dining experience. This position is responsible for warmly greeting guests, managing seating arrangements, coordinating wait times, answering guest inquiries, and creating a welcoming atmosphere that reflects our commitment to exceptional hospitality. The Host/Hostess works closely with the restaurant team to ensure smooth service, efficient table management, and memorable guest experiences.

Essential Job Functions

Guest Experience

• Welcome every guest with a genuine smile and friendly greeting.
• Manage the seating chart to maximize restaurant efficiency while providing excellent guest service.
• Escort guests to their tables and present menus.
• Communicate accurate wait times and manage guest expectations during busy periods.
• Answer phones, take reservations, and respond to guest inquiries professionally.
• Thank guests as they leave and invite them to return.

Restaurant Operations

• Monitor table availability and coordinate seating with servers and management.
• Maintain an organized reservation and waitlist system.
• Ensure the host stand remains clean, organized, and fully stocked.
• Assist with maintaining the cleanliness and appearance of the dining room entrance and lobby.
• Support restaurant flow by communicating effectively with servers, bartenders, and kitchen staff.
• Assist with to-go orders and guest pick-ups as assigned.

Service Standards

• Demonstrate a positive, professional attitude at all times.
• Resolve minor guest concerns promptly and escalate issues to management when appropriate.
• Maintain knowledge of restaurant hours, menu offerings, promotions, and special events.
• Follow all food safety, sanitation, and company policies.
• Support teammates by assisting wherever needed to create an exceptional guest experience.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Previous restaurant, hospitality, or customer service experience preferred but not required.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Friendly, outgoing personality with a passion for hospitality.
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities.
• Ability to remain calm and professional in a fast-paced environment.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds occasionally.
• Ability to bend, reach, stoop, and perform repetitive movements.
• Ability to work in varying temperatures within the restaurant environment.

Schedule Requirements

• Availability to work mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays as business demands require.
• Flexible schedule to support restaurant operations.

Core Competencies

• Guest Focus
• Communication
• Teamwork
• Professionalism
• Organization
• Adaptability
• Attention to Detail
• Time Management
• Positive Attitude
• Problem Solving

Work Environment

This position operates in a fast-paced restaurant environment with frequent interaction with guests, team members, and managers. Noise levels may vary, and the position requires constant movement throughout the dining room.

Acknowledgement

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, or qualifications required. Management reserves the right to modify or assign additional duties as business needs change.

REQUIREMENTS

The Vista Host Promise: We will inspire unlimited potential for every Vista Host associate and hotel guest. We will do this by serving all whom we encounter with genuine kindness and exceptional hospitality. With these efforts, we will empower, and always advocate for, every person's experience to result in their heartfelt desire to return.