Host/ Hostess

Description

Position: Host/ Hostess

FLSA Classification: Hourly Employee, Non-Exempt

General Description of Work

With delegated authority, reporting to the General Manager, Restaurant Manager, and the Guest Services Manager, the Host/ Hostess is responsible for… 

Essential Function:

• Warmly and graciously greet all guests with a smile upon arrival.
• When possible, open the front door for guests entering or leaving the restaurant.
• When immediate seating is limited, record guest names and number of people in party. 
• Call out name and number of party when tables become available.
• Provide guests with estimated waiting time.
• Accommodate special seating requests for guests whenever possible. 
• Seat guest guests based on guest preferences and balancing of customer flow in service stations.
• Upon seating, offer guests a menu and inform them of their server’s name. Inspect table for proper presentation and completeness.  
• Relay messages to servers and bussers as needed.
• Proper phone etiquette 
• Calls guest by name when speaking to them over the phone.
• Always asks email address via phone when taking reservation.
• When taking reservation, asks if special occasion.
• Thank guests as they leave and invite them to return.
• Reports to work on time and as scheduled.
• Understands shift ends once approved by MOD. 

Requirements

Education and/or Experience:

• Minimum of 2–3 years of experience as a Host/Hostess in a fine dining, upscale casual, or high-volume restaurant environment comparable to Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink.
• Previous experience using OpenTable or a similar restaurant reservation and guest management system is required.
• Strong understanding of restaurant seating arrangements, reservation management, and guest flow to ensure smooth front-of-house operations.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and customer service skills, with the ability to deliver a warm, professional, and welcoming guest experience.
• Ability to multitask, remain organized, and work efficiently in a fast-paced, high-volume restaurant environment.
• Experience managing guest expectations, accommodating special requests, and handling guest concerns professionally.
• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.

Physical Ability

• Be able to work in a standing position for long periods of time (up to 10 hours).
• Must have exceptional grooming habits.

Reasoning Ability

Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form. Ability to deal with problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations.