Job Summary:
The Server at Chophouse 13 is responsible for delivering a premium dining experience to guests by providing excellent service, expert knowledge of the menu, and a refined sense of hospitality. Servers are the primary point of contact for our guests throughout their experience and must ensure expectations are exceeded by offering personalized service in line with our fine dining standards. This role requires a high level of professionalism, attention to detail, and a passion for providing a memorable culinary experience.
Key Responsibilities:
- Guest Service: Greet guests warmly and professionally, guiding them through the dining experience. Present menus, make recommendations, and answer questions about menu items, beverages, and specials with confidence and clarity. Offer expert guidance on wine pairings and beverage selections to compliment the guest’s meal. Take accurate food and beverage orders, with diligence of all guests' preferences and dietary restrictions. Must then communicate clearly to the kitchen and bar teams. Provide attentive and personalized service throughout the meal and maintain awareness of each table’s needs without being intrusive. Handle guest complaints or concerns with grace and efficiency, ensuring their satisfaction by working with the management team when necessary.
Menu knowledge and presentation:
Have a thorough understanding of the restaurant’s menu, ingredients, preparation methods, and presentation to confidently describe dishes to guests. Stay informed about daily specials, seasonal menu changes, and any new dishes or beverages introduced to the menu. Ensure that all dishes are presented and served to the guests in accordance with fine dining standards and restaurant guidelines.
Order Management and communication:
Accurately input guest orders into the POS system, ensuring all modifications, allergies, and special requests are clearly noted. Coordinate with the kitchen and bar teams to ensure timely delivery of orders. Communicate effectively with back of house staff, server assistants, and other team members to ensure seamless service and guest satisfaction.
- Table Maintenance and Cleanliness: Ensure that tables are properly set before guests are seated, maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness and presentation. Monitor guest tables throughout their meal, refilling beverages, clearing plates, and ensuring each course is delivered promptly. Work closely with the server assistant to keep tables and the dining area clean, tidy, and well-organized.
- Upselling and Guest Engagement: Utilize suggestive selling techniques to recommend food, beverages, and wine pairings that enhance the guest’s dining experience. Be knowledgeable about premium menu items, including wine, cocktails, and Chef specialties, to provide recommendations that align with guest preferences. Engage with guests to create a personalized and memorable dining experience, taking note of any special occasions or repeat guest preferences.
- Team Collaboration: Work collaboratively with the entire front of house team, including hosts, server assistants, and bartenders, to ensure efficient and seamless service. Assist teammates during busy service periods, covering sections or assisting with food delivery as needed. Maintain open communication with managers to address guest needs or service issues.
- Financial Responsibility: Present guests with accurate and timely bills, process payments, and ensure that the guest leaves satisfied with the service provided. Manage cash and credit card transactions in accordance with restaurant policies and procedures.
- Qualifications: Previous experience as a server in a fine dining or upscale restaurant setting is highly preferred. Excellent knowledge of food, wine, and beverage service, with a strong ability to make pairing recommendations. Strong verbal communication skills and the ability to engage with guests in a professional, personable manner. Ability to multitask and prioritize in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment. Familiarity with POS systems and cash handling. A polished, professional appearance and a commitment to delivering impeccable service.
- Skills & Responsibilities: Exceptional customer service skills and a passion for hospitality. A detail-oriented mindset with a focus on providing an elevated guest experience. Ability to anticipate guest needs and be proactive in delivering service without being prompted. Strong teamwork skills, working harmoniously with both front of house and back of house staff. A high level of integrity, reliability, and professionalism.
- Physical Requirements: Ability to stand and walk for extended periods of time. Ability to lift, carry, and transport items weighing up to 25lbs. Frequent bending, stooping, and reaching is required for table service. Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed by the restaurants schedule.