Job Title
Server Assistant
Department
Front of House (FOH)
Location
Graciela , New York, New York
Reports To
General Manager and/or Restaurant Manager
Employment Type
Full-time, Non-Exempt
Position Summary
Deliver an elevated, guest-centric dining experience in a prestigious, high-end restaurant. The role blends attentive hospitality with refined technical skills, including expert knowledge of menu items, wine and beverage pairings, and precise service etiquette. The server greets guests, presents menus, guides selections, takes and relays orders to the kitchen and bar, and ensures flawless execution from arrival to departure. They maintain impeccable table presentation, monitor pacing, handle guest requests and special occasions with discretion, and collaborate closely with the front-of-house team to uphold the restaurant’s standards. Ideal candidates are polished, personable, highly organized, and able to thrive under pressure while maintaining warmth and attentiveness.
Key Responsibilities
- Deliver exceptional, personalized service to guests in a fine dining setting, ensuring a memorable and seamless dining experience from greeting to departure.
- Present menus, provide in-depth knowledge of dishes, ingredients, and preparations; articulate wine, sake, and beverage pairings, and accommodate dietary restrictions and guest preferences.
- Take and relay accurate orders, coordinate with kitchen and bar to ensure timely, precise delivery of courses and beverages.
- Maintain flawless table etiquette and service standards (silverware, glassware, linen, and overall table presentation) throughout the service.
- Uphold extensive wine service standards, including opening, decanting, pouring, aeration, and proper glassware pairing; assist guests with the selection of wines and coordinate with sommelier when applicable.
- Monitor courses and pacing to ensure each guest receives everything at the appropriate moment; manage multi-table sections with grace and efficiency.
- Handle guest concerns, requests, and special occasions (anniversaries, celebrations) with discretion and high-level courtesy; escalate to management as needed.
- Maintain knowledge of the menu, ingredients, sourcing, and any seasonal or special items; communicate updates to guests and team.
- Adhere to all health, safety, and sanitation guidelines (e.g., NYC health codes) and company policies; practice rigorous personal hygiene and professional grooming standards.
- Process payments accurately and efficiently, including handling POS systems, and manage guest checks with transparency and integrity.
- Collaborate with the front-of-house team, kitchen, bar, and management to ensure a cohesive dining experience and uphold the restaurant’s standards.
Qualifications
- Previous experience in a fine dining or upscale restaurant (2+ years preferred)
- Comprehensive knowledge of wine service, beverage program, and food pairings; willingness to continually learn and deepen product knowledge.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills; ability to read guests and respond with discretion and warmth.
- Professional appearance and demeanor; polished grooming standards; confident, genuine hospitality presence.
- Ability to work a flexible schedule, including nights, weekends, holidays.
- Basic math and POS system proficiency; ability to handle currency/credit transactions accurately.
- Food Handler Certification or willingness to obtain; awareness of NYC health and safety regulations.
Physical Requirements
- Stand/walk for extended periods; lift and carry up to 35–40 lbs (cases, trays).
- Confident handling of trays, glass racks, and decanters; frequent stair or tight-space navigation.
- Availability for nights, weekends, holidays, and special events.
Schedule
- Full-time; variable schedule based on service and event needs.
- Compensation and Benefits
- Compensation: $11.35 hourly + Tips & Service Charge depending on model.
- Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, staff meals,
