THE MANCHESTER HOTEL Restaurant Host Lexington, KY · Full time

Apply for Restaurant Host

The Manchester Hotel is an upscale lifestyle hotel opening in the Spring of 2023, in the heart of the Distillery District of Downtown Lexington, KY.  We are seeking high energy, self-motivated hosts for both our Granddam concept as well as our rooftop bar Lost Palm.

As a host, you will be the first point of contact for guests and play a critical role in creating a positive impression and welcoming atmosphere in the restaurant. Your main responsibility will be to greet and seat guests in a timely and efficient manner, manage reservations, and ensure smooth operations in the dining area. You will also provide assistance to other restaurant staff as needed and deliver exceptional customer service to create a memorable dining experience for guests.

Duties include:

• Greet guests warmly and provide friendly and professional service, creating a positive first impression.
• Manage reservations and seating arrangements, ensuring efficient and organized seating of guests.
• Maintain an organized and clean host/hostess station, including managing reservation books, menus, and other guest-related materials.
• Provide accurate wait times and manage guest expectations during peak hours, offering appropriate seating options and solutions.
• Collaborate with other restaurant staff, including servers, bartenders, and management, to ensure smooth operations and guest satisfaction.
• Keep track of available tables and communicate with servers and bussers to coordinate seating arrangements and table turnovers.
• Handle guest inquiries, complaints, and special requests in a professional and courteous manner, escalating issues to the appropriate personnel when necessary.
• Provide information to guests about restaurant promotions, menu items, and other relevant information.
• Monitor the cleanliness and tidiness of the dining area, including assisting with clearing and resetting tables as needed.
• Assist with other tasks as assigned by management, such as taking to-go orders, managing coat check, or assisting with special events.
• Follow all food safety, sanitation, and health code guidelines to ensure a clean and safe dining environment.
• Maintain knowledge of restaurant policies, procedures, and safety protocols, and ensure compliance at all times.
• Provide feedback and suggestions to management for improving guest service and operations.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Prior experience as a host/hostess in a restaurant or similar establishment preferred.
• Excellent customer service skills, with the ability to communicate effectively with guests and team members.
• Ability to multitask and work in a fast-paced environment, while maintaining a professional and friendly demeanor.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail for managing reservations, seating arrangements, and guest inquiries.
• Ability to handle difficult situations with professionalism and composure, including managing guest complaints or difficult seating situations.
• Basic math skills for managing reservation books, seating charts, and guest counts.
• Ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required.
• Must have good hygiene and grooming standards, and adhere to dress code requirements.
• Must be able to stand, walk, and lift moderate weights for extended periods of time.