Lead Host

About Cosme
Cosme is a contemporary Mexican restaurant in New York City from Chef Enrique Olvera, celebrated for its warm hospitality, ingredient-driven cuisine, and refined yet relaxed atmosphere. Our team strives to deliver exceptional guest experiences through thoughtful service, genuine connection, and deep respect for our craft.

We are currently seeking a Lead Host to join our front-of-house leadership team. This position plays a key role in shaping the first and last impression of every guest, guiding the host team with confidence, empathy, and a strong sense of purpose.

The Lead Host serves as the primary liaison between guests and the management team, ensuring seamless daily operations of the reservation and greeting process. This role leads by example—training, mentoring, and empowering the host team to deliver world-class service aligned with Cosme’s standards of hospitality.

You will be responsible for mastering the Resy system, maintaining guest databases, managing reservations, and collaborating with management to maximize covers and enhance the guest experience. The ideal candidate is an exceptional communicator, detail-oriented organizer, and natural leader who thrives in a fast-paced, high-volume fine dining environment.

• Lead and mentor the host team with professionalism and positivity.

• Manage and audit the Resy reservation system; ensure accuracy and efficiency.

• Develop relationships with VIP guests and oversee special requests or occasions.

• Collaborate with management to optimize seating strategies and daily operations.

• Schedule and conduct host training sessions and department meetings.

• Manage host recruitment, onboarding, scheduling, and payroll.

• Monitor guest feedback and implement service improvements.

• Drive planning and readiness for major holidays and high-demand periods.

• Maintain compliance with all Health Department and Department of Labor standards.

• Minimum 3 years of guest relations experience in a high-volume, fine dining restaurant.

• Minimum 1 year of leadership or management experience.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

• Knowledge of Resy and proficiency in Google Systems

• Excellent organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to remain calm under pressure and resolve guest concerns with tact.

• Flexible schedule including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

• Fluency in English required; conversational Spanish a plus.

• Bachelor’s degree preferred.

• Competitive pay and comprehensive benefits.

• Medical insurance, commuter benefits, and paid vacation.

• Dining discounts across Casamata restaurants (Cosme, ATLA, Damian, and others).

• Supportive and inclusive workplace culture with opportunities for growth.

• Be part of a globally recognized restaurant group rooted in Mexican heritage and New York excellence.