Position: Host

About Saba:

Saba, meaning "Grandfather" in Hebrew, is the flagship restaurant of Pomegranate Hospitality, located in the vibrant Uptown neighborhood of New Orleans. Saba is more than just a dining experience; it is a journey through the rich culinary landscape of Israel, guided by the heritage and personal stories of Chef Alon Shaya. At Saba, we draw inspiration from the diverse influences of the Middle East, Europe, and North Africa, offering our guests a unique taste of this ever-evolving cuisine. From the moment our guests step in, they are immersed in the warmth of our wood-fired pita bread, baked just steps from their table, and the bold flavors of dishes that celebrate the rich culinary traditions of Bulgaria, Yemen, Syria, Morocco, Turkey, Palestine, and Greece.

At Saba, we are committed to sourcing the freshest seafood, meats, and produce from local farms around New Orleans, LA. These ingredients are transformed into family-style platters that are both comforting and innovative, served in a setting that reflects our deep respect for the cultural intersections that have shaped our menu.

Our Mission & Core Values:

At Saba, we believe in creating a space where everyone feels welcomed, respected, and fulfilled—both professionally and personally. Our mission is to foster an environment where love, mutual respect, and a commitment to equality are at the forefront of everything we do. We stand up for our values, ensuring that our restaurant is a place where all people, regardless of their background, can come together and feel at home. 

Our core values guide everything we do and are the foundation of our commitment to creating a welcoming and supportive environment for both our team and our guests. We believe in the power of education and strive to continuously learn and grow. Respect is at the heart of our interactions, ensuring that everyone we encounter feels valued and appreciated. We are committed to fairness in all our practices, treating everyone with equity and integrity. Empowerment is key to our success, as we encourage and support each other to reach our fullest potential. We pride ourselves on being reliable, consistently delivering on our promises and maintaining the highest standards. Passion drives us, fueling our dedication to the craft of hospitality and inspiring us to create memorable experiences. Communication is essential to our teamwork, fostering clear, honest, and open exchanges that keep our operations running smoothly. Finally, we maintain a positive attitude, approaching every challenge with optimism and a can-do spirit, creating an environment where happiness and fulfillment thrive.

Job Overview:

The Host at Saba plays a vital role as the first point of contact for our guests, ensuring they receive a warm and welcoming introduction to their dining experience. The Host is responsible for managing reservations, coordinating seating arrangements, and maintaining an organized and inviting waiting area. This position requires excellent communication skills, a friendly demeanor, and the ability to stay organized in a fast-paced environment. The Host sets the tone for the guest experience, reflecting the hospitality and professionalism that Saba is known for.

Key Responsibilities:

• Greet and welcome guests with warmth and a smile as they arrive, setting the tone for an exceptional dining experience.
• Manage reservations and seating arrangements to ensure a smooth flow of service.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and inviting waiting area.
• Answer phone calls with professionalism, providing information about the restaurant and handling inquiries with care.
• Assist guests with special requests, ensuring their needs are met with attentiveness and a personal touch.
• Perform all other duties, as assigned. 

Qualifications:

• Prior experience as a host or in customer service is preferred.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a natural ability to connect with guests and colleagues.
• Strong organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• A friendly, welcoming demeanor that embodies the spirit of hospitality.

Physical Requirements:

• Standing for extended periods, often for the entire shift.
• Regular walking to escort guests to tables and manage seating arrangements.
• Bending and stooping to retrieve menus, arrange seating, and clean the waiting area.
• Occasionally lifting and carrying items such as stacks of menus, chairs, or small boxes (up to 20 pounds).

Joining the Saba team means becoming part of a family that is passionate about food, culture, and creating memorable experiences for our guests. If you share our values and are excited to contribute to a dynamic and supportive team, we invite you to apply and be a part of our story.