Host - Mercado Little Spain

Job Title: Host - Mercado Little Spain
Reports To: GM
Department: Front of House
Employment Type: Hourly, Non-Exempt
Pay Rate: $20.00 per hour, based on experience

About José Andrés Group

José Andrés Group (JAG) is a hospitality company led by Chef José Andrés, known for outstanding guest experiences, innovation, and a values-driven culture. Our teams bring world-class food and warm hospitality to life across acclaimed concepts worldwide.

Position Summary

As an ambassador of Mercado Little Spain and José Andrés Group, the Host is responsible for warmly greeting guests, managing reservations, coordinating seating, and guiding visitors through the unique dining experiences available throughout the property.

Unlike a traditional restaurant host position, this role requires a strong understanding of our multi-unit environment, the ability to communicate across restaurant teams, and a commitment to providing exceptional hospitality to every guest, regardless of where they choose to dine. 

What we would like from you:

• Exceptional Hospitality: Every guest is acknowledged, welcomed, and treated with genuine care.
• Restaurant Knowledge: Confidently explain and recommend all Mercado Little Spain dining experiences.
• Communication: Maintain strong coordination across restaurant teams and management.
• Reservation Accuracy: Manage seating, waitlists, and guest information with precision.
• Guest Retention: Help keep guests within Mercado Little Spain by identifying suitable alternative dining options when needed.
• Teamwork: Support the overall success of the Mercado, not just one individual restaurant.

Skills & Conditions

• 1 year full-service, high-volume restaurant experience in a host position.
• Open availability a must: minimum of 3 days per week, including weekends and holidays, with flexibility.
• Passion for hospitality, guest engagement, and serving others.
• Must be able to lift up to 15 lbs. on a regular and continuing basis.
• May be required to lift trays of food or food items weighing up to 30 lbs. occasionally.
• Previous experience with restaurant point-of-sales (POS) systems.
• Strong understanding of communication skills to build trusting relationships with colleagues and guests.
• Ability to take direction and work in a team environment and to work calmly and effectively under pressure.
• A yearning to grow and learn.
• Have a strong work ethic while leading by example.
• A basic understanding of classic cookery, wine, beer, and cocktails.
• This position will spend 100% of the time standing or walking.
• Proficiency with Resy/Open Table preferred.
• Excellent at guest relations and conflict resolution.
• Professional, business casual attire required.
• Culinary and/or Beverage Degree/Certification, a plus.
• Hospitality Degree/Certification, a plus.

In Return, We Offer You

• Competitive hourly pay with opportunities for cross-training and advancement
• Eligible health & wellness benefits (for qualifying positions)
• Employee dining and partner discounts
• Growth in a values-driven, award-winning hospitality group

Equal Opportunity Employer
José Andrés Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in the federal E-Verify Program.