Host / Reservationist

Overview:

Masa Restaurants is looking for a personable and charismatic candidate to join our team as a Host and Reservationist. As a host, you will partake in dining all steps of service, as well as greet and seat guests. Additionally, you will assist with the reservations department and oversee all related aspects of the department. As a member of Masa Restaurants, you will learn and uphold the highest standards of service and develop essential skills necessary to perform the duties associated with the roles.

Primary Responsibilities Include, but not Limited to:

• Attending all pre-shift meetings to learn of service expectations for the day/night.
• Greeting all guests as they walk into the restaurant.
• Communicating the restaurant’s expected conduct of all guests including but not limited to the prohibited use of their phone while in the dining room.
• Assisting guests with any belongings that need storing as well as coat check.
• Guiding guests to their table and communicating all guest correspondence with management and staff.
• Provide excellent service, address guest inquiries, concerns, and special needs.
• Handle guest complaints professionally, resolving issues or escalating to management as necessary.
• Contribute to all steps of the Omakase service including replenishing water, clearing dishware and silverware, re-plating various courses, etc.
• Maintain impeccable standards of cleanliness and appearance throughout all areas of the restaurant both before, during and after service.
• Adhere to sanitation, safety, and alcohol beverage control policies.

Reservations:

• Professionally answering phones and assisting guests with their inquiries.
• Responding to emails and redirecting any inquiries to the proper department.
• Communicating with the Events Director regarding any large parties and required contracts.
• Mindfully accept reservations according to restaurant availability.
• Communicating with guests inquiring about reservations of closures and buyouts.
• Thoroughly communicating with the operations team and back of house management regarding all guest specifications, guest information, and guest dining requirements.
• Provide guest service support by assisting the kitchen, cleaning work areas, and replenishing supplies.
• Demonstrate expert knowledge of all menu items, as well as special menu items.
• Be able to effectively describe each dish as well as the ingredients, preparation, technique, and allergens.
• Handle administrative duties such as updating guest records, managing reservation software, and processing payments (for large parties).
• Update guest information in Access and managing reservations through Tock and Open Table.
• Maintain a polished and professional appearance according to the dress code.
• Follow all company policies, procedures, and guidelines.
• Reporting for your shift as scheduled and following the Company’s policies for tardiness and missing shifts.
• Demonstrate ethical workmanship that protects the assets and image of the Company.
• Fully understanding and complying with all City, State, and Federal requirements that pertain to health and safety for staff and guests.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required:

• 3+ years of experience as restaurant host.
• 2-3 years of experience as a restaurant server.
• Familiar with hospitality industry’s best practices.
• Strong interpersonal skills.
• Excellent verbal communication skills.
• Keen attention to detail.
• Analytical skills - the ability to compare, contrast and quality check work.
• Language skills – Fluency in English is necessary to perform the job.
• Knowledge of New York Department of Health standards and protocols.