Host

We’re seeking passionate, curious, and hospitality-driven team members to join our crew and help shape the guest experience. If you’re eager to craft memorable moments, collaborate with talented teammates, and grow in a fast-paced, vibrant restaurant environment, we want to hear from you. Together, we’ll set the standard for hospitality in Culver City and bring Picala’s bold flavors and warm, inviting culture to life.  

Who We Are:

Acme Hospitality owns and operates a collection of highly acclaimed and award-winning food & beverage concepts and boutique hotels throughout California. In addition to a collection of restaurants and hotels, we create hospitality experiences that inspire people, create a sense of camaraderie, and make people happy.

Picala is a gathering place in the West Adams neighborhood of West Los Angeles, an energetic crossroads where Culver City, South Los Angeles, and West Los Angeles come together. Rooted in the Spanish tradition of sharing food as community, it's a restaurant designed for connection: a bar for quick tapas and a cocktail, a patio for lingering with friends, or a dining room for a full live-fired feast. Ingredient-driven, fresh, and welcoming, Picala is where the Westside comes to eat, drink, and belong.

Mission & Core Values:

Above all else, we are committed to providing our team members with a work environment and experience that we can be proud of. Our Core Values of Delivering Excellence, Embrace Originality, Act with Integrity and Celebrate Community are the essential ingredients for success.

Position Summary:

Host is responsible for providing guests with a warm welcome and ensuring a smooth and enjoyable dining experience. Hosts are often the first point of contact for guests and play a crucial role in creating a positive first impression.

Responsibilities:

• Greet guests upon arrival, warmly welcoming them to the restaurant and creating a positive first impression.
• Escort guests to their assigned tables, ensuring they are seated comfortably and providing any assistance they may need.
• Manage the waitlist efficiently, maintaining accurate records of reservations and walk-in guests.
• Provide accurate wait time estimates to guests and inform them of any delays or special arrangements.
• Coordinate with the waitstaff and kitchen to ensure a smooth and timely seating process.
• Answer telephone calls and respond to inquiries regarding reservations, menu items, and restaurant services in a friendly and knowledgeable manner.
• Assist in taking and confirming reservations, ensuring accurate information is recorded.
• Maintain a clean and organized host stand or reception area, including keeping menus, reservation books, and other supplies readily available.
• Monitor the dining area to ensure that tables are properly set and organized, and that the ambiance is suitable for guests.
• Communicate effectively with the waitstaff and management regarding table availability, special requests, and guest preferences.
• Provide guests with menus, wine lists, or other requested information, explaining any specials or chef recommendations.
• Manage guest flow and seating arrangements to optimize table turnover and maximize seating capacity.
• Assist in coordinating special events or private dining reservations, ensuring all necessary arrangements are made.
• Maintain restrooms by cleaning and stocking all necessary supplies regularly.
• Handle guest concerns or complaints in a professional and timely manner, escalating issues to management when necessary.
• Maintain a high level of professionalism, courtesy, and hospitality in all interactions with guests.

Requirements:

• Previous experience as a Host or Hostess in a fine dining or upscale restaurant is preferred.
• Excellent customer service and communication skills to interact with guests in a friendly and professional manner.
• Professional and polished appearance, adhering to dress code and grooming standards.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Strong organizational skills to manage reservations, waitlists, and seating arrangements efficiently.
• Familiarity with reservation management systems and basic computer skills.
• Flexibility to work in shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Positive attitude and ability to remain calm under pressure.
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Knowledge of fine dining etiquette and service standards.
• Ability to work well in a team and collaborate effectively with colleagues.
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in managing reservations and guest information.
• Ability to handle guest concerns or complaints in a professional and diplomatic manner.
• Familiarity with the local area and knowledge of nearby attractions or services that may be of interest to guests.
• Active Food Handler Certification is required.

Job Status:

Non-Exempt

Important Notice:

This job description is not an exclusive or exhaustive list of all job functions that an Acme Hospitality Team Member in this position may be asked to perform from time to time. Based on business needs or Guest service objectives, you may also be asked to perform other duties or tasks in addition to those listed above and will be required to have completed required training associated with the other duties or tasks.