Host / Hostess – Experienced (Italian Restaurant)
Location: Whitestone, Queens, NY
We are seeking a polished, friendly, and highly organized Host / Hostess to become the first impression of our restaurant. This position is ideal for someone who enjoys hospitality, thrives in a fast-paced dining room, and understands that exceptional guest service begins at the front door.
Schedule
- Thursday through Sunday
- 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Approximately 24 hours per week
- Weekend availability is required
Qualifications
- Minimum 3 years of restaurant hosting experience
- Professional appearance and positive attitude
- Excellent communication and customer service skills
- Ability to multitask during busy dinner service
- Comfortable managing multiple phone lines and guest inquiries
- Strong organizational and time management skills
- Ability to remain calm and courteous during peak service
Experience Preferred
- Toast POS experience (preferred), Clover or other popular POS
- 3rd Party Ordering Platforms: DoorDash, UberEats, Grubhub
- OpenTable experience (preferred)
- ServSafe Certification (a plus)
Responsibilities
- Welcome every guest with warmth and professionalism
- Manage reservations, walk-ins, and the waitlist efficiently
- Answer phones promptly and accurately
- Take reservations and assist with online reservation platforms
- Coordinate seating to maintain a smooth flow of service
- Communicate wait times honestly and professionally
- Work closely with the General Manager, servers, and kitchen to maximize guest experience
- Balance server sections fairly while maintaining dining room efficiency
- Assist guests with menu questions and basic wine recommendations when appropriate
- Help maintain a clean, organized, and inviting entrance and host station
- Handle guest concerns calmly and professionally before involving management
Knowledge & Skills
We're looking for someone who understands hospitality beyond simply seating guests.
The ideal candidate will have:
- Knowledge of common food allergies and dietary restrictions
- Familiarity with Italian cuisine and ingredients
- Understanding of guest pacing and table management
- Ability to anticipate busy periods and adjust seating accordingly
- Strong teamwork and communication with servers, bartenders, and management
- Confidence using reservation software and online ordering platforms
- A genuine desire to create an exceptional guest experience from arrival through departure
What We're Looking For
You are:
- Reliable and punctual
- Friendly without being overbearing
- Professional under pressure
- Detail-oriented
- A team player who enjoys working in hospitality
- Someone who takes pride in making guests feel welcome
If you enjoy creating memorable first impressions and delivering exceptional hospitality, we'd love to meet you.
Please reply with your resume and a brief summary of your restaurant experience.
Pay: $17.50 - $20.00 per hour
Work Location: In person
