Restaurant Host and Hostess Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the bustling world of hospitality, the role of restaurant host and hostess has never been more significant.

As the dining industry evolves, the demand for individuals who can orchestrate, enhance, and secure our dining experiences amplifies.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a restaurant host and hostess?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the nuances of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the intricacies of restaurant hosting,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable restaurant host and hostess job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Restaurant Host and Hostess Duties and Responsibilities

Restaurant Hosts and Hostesses are often the first point of contact for customers, providing a warm welcome and ensuring a positive dining experience.

They play a vital role in coordinating the seating arrangements and managing reservations.

The duties and responsibilities of a Restaurant Host and Hostess include:

• Greeting guests upon arrival and making them feel welcomed and comfortable
• Managing restaurant reservations and coordinating seating arrangements
• Providing guests with menus and answering any initial questions they may have
• Estimating wait times for guests
• Monitoring dining rooms and ensuring cleanliness and proper setup
• Alerting servers when tables are in need of attention
• Handling customer complaints with grace and professionalism
• Processing customer payments and providing change as needed
• Maintaining a record of available seating and restaurant activity
• Assisting with cleaning tasks as needed to ensure smooth operation

 

Restaurant Host and Hostess Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a friendly and organized restaurant host/hostess to join our team.

The host/hostess is the first point of contact for our guests and responsible for ensuring a pleasant dining experience.

Responsibilities include greeting guests, managing table reservations, guiding guests to tables and bar area, and maintaining a clean and welcoming environment.

Ideal candidates should have excellent customer service skills, strong organizational abilities, and a keen eye for detail.

They should also be capable of working in a fast-paced, busy environment and be able to handle stress and remain calm under pressure.

 

Responsibilities

• Greet incoming and departing guests warmly with a genuine smile and eye contact
• Manage the efficient and timely seating of our guests
• Respond to guest inquiries and requests in a timely, friendly, and efficient manner
• Manage reservations and walk-ins, providing accurate wait times to incoming guests
• Assist in maintaining the restaurant’s cleanliness and ensuring the dining area is always neat and tidy
• Coordinate with wait staff about available seating options
• Thank guests as they leave and invite them to return

 

Qualifications

• Previous work experience as a host/hostess or waiter/waitress
• Strong customer service skills and a friendly, outgoing personality
• Excellent communication and organizational skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
• Flexibility to work in shifts, including weekends, evenings and holidays
• Understanding of hygiene and food safety rules
• Physical endurance to stand and move during the length of the shift
• High school diploma; hospitality certification is a plus

 

Benefits

• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Paid time off
• Opportunity for career advancement

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Restaurant Host/Hostess
• Work Environment: Fast-paced restaurant setting. Weekend, holiday, and evening work required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Restaurant Manager or Floor Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $12 minimum to $20 maximum per hour
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time or Part-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a brief description of your customer service experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Restaurant Host and Hostess Do?

Restaurant Hosts and Hostesses are the first points of contact in a dining establishment.

They work in various types of restaurants from casual dining eateries to upscale restaurants.

Their primary responsibility is to greet customers as they enter the restaurant, take their reservations or put them on a waiting list, give them menus and show them to their seats.

They also manage takeout and delivery orders.

Hosts and hostesses ensure guests have a great first impression of the restaurant.

They answer any initial questions the guests might have about the menu or the restaurant.

In addition to these duties, they also take incoming phone calls and answer any queries related to dining, menu, hours of operation, or directions to the restaurant.

During busy periods, they manage the flow of guests into the dining and bar areas to ensure a smooth service for both the guests and the kitchen staff.

They may also be responsible for some side duties like restocking the dining area and ensuring cleanliness of the restaurant.

In some restaurants, the host or hostess may also handle transactions and the task of saying goodbye to the guests, ensuring they leave with a great impression.

Their role is crucial in providing excellent customer service and creating a welcoming environment for all guests.

 

Restaurant Host and Hostess Qualifications and Skills

A proficient restaurant host or hostess should possess skills and qualifications that align with the specific duties of the job, such as:

• Excellent interpersonal skills to greet guests warmly and make them feel welcomed and comfortable.
• Strong communication skills to clearly explain the menu, make suggestions, answer customer inquiries about the restaurant, and communicate effectively with the restaurant staff.
• Outstanding customer service skills to ensure all guests have a pleasant dining experience and to handle any complaints in a professional and constructive manner.
• Good organizational skills to manage reservation and waiting lists, to seat guests in a way that balances the workload of the waitstaff, and to maintain a clean reception area.
• Ability to work under pressure during busy periods and multi-task in a fast-paced environment.
• Attention to detail to remember guests’ names and their seating preferences to provide a personalized dining experience.
• Physical stamina as the role may require standing for long periods and possibly lifting heavy trays or chairs.
• Conflict resolution skills to handle any disputes or complaints, always aiming to resolve issues in a way that maintains the restaurant’s reputation.

 

Restaurant Host and Hostess Experience Requirements

Restaurant hosts and hostesses typically need to possess some level of experience in customer service roles.

This could be from part-time jobs, internships, or volunteer opportunities during their studies.

In such roles, they learn the basics of customer interaction, problem-solving, and maintaining a professional demeanor.

Many entry-level positions do not require extensive experience, as most of the skills needed to be a host or hostess can be learned on-the-job.

However, some high-end or specialty restaurants may prefer candidates with 1 to 2 years of experience in a similar role in the hospitality industry.

Individuals with more than 2 years of experience in the role of a host or hostess typically have honed their abilities in managing customer expectations, dealing with high-stress environments, and coordinating with other restaurant staff efficiently.

They may also have a deeper understanding of reservation systems and seating arrangements.

Hosts and hostesses with over 5 years of experience often have significant exposure to different restaurant types and service styles.

They may be well-equipped to handle supervisory or managerial roles in the restaurant, overseeing the work of other hosts and hostesses and coordinating with the restaurant management on customer service strategies.

 

Restaurant Host and Hostess Education and Training Requirements

Restaurant Hosts and Hostesses typically require a high school diploma or equivalent education.

Formal education beyond high school is generally not required, but some may have a degree in hospitality or a related field.

Training is often provided on the job, and new hires may shadow more experienced staff to learn about the restaurant’s procedures and expectations.

While not mandatory, some hosts and hostesses may choose to undertake courses in customer service, communication, and hospitality to enhance their skills and performance.

In upscale establishments or fine dining restaurants, prior experience or knowledge in the hospitality industry may be expected.

Some restaurants may require hosts and hostesses to undergo training in health and safety regulations, including food handling certifications.

In addition, demonstrating professionalism, excellent communication skills, and a friendly personality can be valuable in this role.

 

Restaurant Host and Hostess Salary Expectations

A Restaurant Host or Hostess can expect to earn an average wage of $12.15 (USD) per hour.

However, the actual earnings can vary based on factors such as experience, location, and the size and reputation of the restaurant.

Some hosts and hostesses also earn tips, which can significantly increase their overall earnings.

 

Restaurant Host and Hostess Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Restaurant Host and Hostess need?

Restaurant Hosts and Hostesses need excellent customer service skills to ensure that guests have a positive dining experience.

Good communication and interpersonal skills are crucial for coordinating with both customers and other restaurant staff.

Attention to detail and multitasking are also essential, as they often have to manage reservations, waiting lists, and dining room organization.

 

Do Restaurant Hosts and Hostesses need a degree?

While a high school diploma or equivalent is generally sufficient, a degree is not usually required for the role of a Restaurant Host or Hostess.

However, previous work experience in a customer service role or a related field can be beneficial.

Most skills needed for this position are learned on the job.

 

What should you look for in a Restaurant Host and Hostess resume?

Look for candidates with previous experience in customer service or the hospitality industry.

Good communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to multitask are important skills for this role.

Any knowledge or experience in restaurant management software or reservation systems is also beneficial.

 

What qualities make a good Restaurant Host and Hostess?

A good Restaurant Host and Hostess are friendly and welcoming, creating a positive first impression for guests.

They are excellent communicators, able to juggle multiple tasks and solve problems quickly.

They have a professional demeanor, are patient with customers, and can handle stressful situations with grace.

An understanding of the restaurant’s operations and the ability to work well with a team are also valuable qualities.

 

What are the typical duties of a Restaurant Host and Hostess?

A Restaurant Host and Hostess are responsible for greeting guests as they arrive and showing them to their tables.

They manage reservations and waiting lists, communicate with the wait staff about table turnover, and sometimes assist with tasks like clearing tables or answering phones.

They are often the last point of contact when guests leave, ensuring any final needs are met and inviting them to return.

 

Is it difficult to hire Restaurant Hosts and Hostesses?

Hiring for this position can be challenging due to high turnover rates in the restaurant industry.

However, this role is often seen as an entry point into the industry, making it attractive to applicants looking to gain experience.

Offering competitive wages, flexible hours, and opportunities for advancement can help attract high-quality candidates.

 

Conclusion

So, there you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the true essence of what it means to be a restaurant host or hostess.

And guess what?

It’s not just about greeting and seating customers.

It’s about orchestrating the rhythm of a dining experience, one guest at a time.

With our essential restaurant host and hostess job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready to step into this vibrant role.

But why stop there?

Dive deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to finely crafted job postings or perfecting your resume like a pro.

Remember:

Every guest interaction is a part of the larger dining experience.

Let’s create memorable dining experiences. Together.

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