Host - Zaytinya LA

Job Title: Host / Hostess / Guest Services
Reports To: Floor Manager / Assistant General Manager / General Manager
Department: Front of House – Guest Services
Employment Type: Hourly, Non-Exempt

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

Hosts are the first and last impression of our dining experience. You’ll welcome guests with warmth, manage reservations and walk-ins, balance pacing with the kitchen and bar, and keep the dining room flowing smoothly. This role requires gracious communication, polished professionalism, and strong command of floor plans, timing, and guest preferences.

Key Responsibilities

Guest Reception & Hospitality

• Greet every guest with a warm, genuine welcome; maintain a professional presence at the host stand.
• Anticipate needs (celebrations, accessibility, special requests) and personalize the experience.
• Provide clear wait-time quotes and thoughtful alternatives; manage expectations with empathy.

Reservations, Waitlist & Seating Flow

• Manage reservations/waitlist (e.g., Resy/SevenRooms/TOCK) to optimize seat utilization and guest pacing.
• Execute seating to floor plan and server rotation; coordinate with FOH leadership to balance sections.
• Monitor table status/turns; communicate delays or adjustments promptly to guests and team.

Communication & Guest Recovery

• Share key details with servers (allergies, preferences, celebrations, VIPs); update notes in the system.
• Address guest concerns or escalations with composure; engage a manager when needed.
• Maintain clear, courteous phone and email etiquette; capture detailed messages/leads.

Readiness & Cleanliness

• Keep host stand, entry, menus, and signage organized and presentation-ready at all times.
• Support lobby/door checks, coat check (as applicable), restroom spot checks, and ADA accessibility.
• Assist with menu updates, collateral, and daily event signage.

Technology & To-Go Support (as applicable)

• Use reservation/POS tools accurately, process confirmations, waitlist texts, and guest profiles.
• Support to-go/pickup coordination with the bar/kitchen when assigned; ensure accurate handoffs.

Compliance & Safety

• Follow DOH standards and allergy protocols; uphold crowd management and safe entry/exit flow.
• Adhere to responsible alcohol service policies (ID checks for bar seating as applicable).

Teamwork & Culture

• Partner with servers, runners, bar, and management to protect ticket times and guest experience.
• Participate in pre-shifts and trainings, model JAG values, inclusivity, and professionalism.

Required Qualifications

• 6+ months guest-facing hospitality experience preferred (host, concierge, reception, or similar).
• Polished communication, phone/email etiquette, and professional demeanor.
• Comfort with reservation platforms and POS basics; Google Workspace familiarity a plus.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
• Reliable attendance and schedule flexibility (nights, weekends, holidays).

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements

• Stand/walk for extended periods (up to 8+ hours); frequent reaching and light lifting (up to 20–25 lbs.).
• Work in a fast-paced environment with variable noise and temperature; slip-resistant footwear required.

In Return, We Offer You

• Competitive hourly pay plus tips (where applicable)
• Opportunities for growth, cross-training, and advancement
• Employee dining and partner discounts
• Access to health & wellness benefits where eligible

Equal Opportunity Employer

José Andrés Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in the federal E-Verify Program.José Andrés restaurants have always been centered around our original mission, Change the World through the Power of Food! From fast casual to fine dining and everything in between, JAG’ers know they all play a critical role in overall success of our brands.