Lead Host

Job Summary

The Lead Host is a pivotal part of the restaurant’s front-of-house team, assisting the Restaurant Manager in ensuring smooth floor operations while delivering exceptional guest service. This role requires strong organizational skills, leadership ability, and a keen eye for detail to manage reservations, seating flow, and guest interactions efficiently. The ideal candidate is personable, proactive, and thrives in a fast-paced dining environment.

Key Responsibilities

Guest Experience & Seating Management

• Warmly greet and escort guests to their tables, setting the tone for a positive dining experience.
  

• Optimize seating arrangements to balance server sections and maximize table turnover.
  

• Address guest concerns promptly and escalate issues to the Restaurant Manager when necessary.
  

• Assist the Restaurant Manager with opening/closing duties, including setting up the host stand and reviewing reservations.
  

• Track guest counts, wait times, and no-shows to help with forecasting and staffing adjustments.
  

• Assist with inventory management, ensuring host supplies are stocked and organized.( pepper, salt, napkins, cutlery etc)
  

• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.
  

• Maintain cleanliness and organization within the restaurant.
  

• Support special events or private dining setups as directed by management.
  

Service Standards & Problem-Solving

• Uphold the restaurant’s service standards, ensuring a welcoming and professional atmosphere.
  

• Handle high-pressure situations (e.g., long wait times, unhappy guests) with patience and diplomacy.
  

• Collaborate with the manager to implement solutions for operational inefficiencies.
  

Team Leadership & Floor Coordination

• Supervise and guide Floor staff (Hosts, Runners.) to ensure efficient service.
  

• Delegate tasks effectively and ensure team members adhere to timelines and procedures.
  

• Oversee the host stand, ensuring smooth transitions between shifts and proper coverage.
  

• Communicate effectively with servers, bussers, and managers regarding table status, VIP guests, and timings.
  

• Assist in training and guiding new hosts on restaurant policies, seating procedures, and service standards.
  

• Monitor dining room flow, anticipating bottlenecks and adjusting seating as needed.
  

Requirements

Experience: 2+ years in hosting or front-of-house roles (leadership experience preferred).

• Skills:
  

  • Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
    

  • Proficiency in POS systems and basic computer skills.
    

  • Ability to multitask and stay composed during peak hours.
    

  • Knowledge of fine dining set ups as well as silver service 
    

  • Strong problem-solving and teamwork mindset.
    

• Attributes:
  

  • Friendly, outgoing, and guest-focused demeanor
    

  • Keen eye for detail.
    

  • Charismatic and driven to ensure guest satisfaction.
    

  • Flexibility to work nights, weekends, and holidays.
    

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for long periods, move quickly through the dining room, and occasionally lift 20 lbs