The Host is responsible for facilitating and maintaining an atmosphere of extraordinary hospitality for our clients and guests. The Host is the first and last impression for our guests, playing a pivotal role in setting the tone for an exceptional dining experience. The Host welcomes guests with warmth and professionalism, manages reservations and seating flow, and coordinates closely with front-of-house staff to ensure seamless service throughout every shift.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
- Greeting all guests upon arrival with a genuine, friendly welcome and escort them to their tables in a timely manner
- Manage the reservation system (e.g., OpenTable, Resy) and maintain an accurate waitlist during peak periods
- Monitor table availability and communicate seating status to servers and management
- Answer phone calls to take and confirm reservations and respond to general dining inquiries
- Coordinate with the kitchen and service team to manage dining room pacing and turn times
- Accommodate special requests, such as accessibility needs, dietary requirements, and celebratory arrangements
- Maintain cleanliness and organization of the host stand, entrance area, and menus
- Bid guests farewell and invite them to return, gathering feedback where appropriate
- Assist with setting up the dining room before service and resetting it after
- Assist guests with personal belongings including coats and bags
- Facilitate proactive communication between the hotel, events, and restaurant operations
- Demonstrates high level attention to detail and provides creative solutions to uncommon problems.
- Adheres to all job relevant manuals, checklists, and standard operating procedures.
Customer Service/Guest Relations
- Acts as the direct contact for the client, creating a positive relationship and memorable experience.
- Answers questions and accomplishes any requests from guests regarding food, beverages, and any other event details and services.
- Informs Supervisors of difficult or emotional customer situations. Makes every attempt possible to fix the situation.
- Responds promptly and courteously to client and guest needs.
- Observes and acknowledges client and guest needs before request is made.
- Engages guests in a friendly, yet professional manner; engages guests using 5-10ft rule.
- Communicate with clients and guests to assess satisfaction with experience; solicits information to ensure all needs are met.
Communication and Professionalism
- Consistently adheres to CEG Mission Statement and Core Values.
- Expresses thoughts and ideas in written/verbal form in a respective manner.
- Exhibits good listening and comprehension skills; speaks clearly and audibly.
- Consistently adheres to dress code.