Restaurant Host

Join our team at Hotel Nell - Union Market

Located in the heart of Washington, D.C.’s vibrant Union Market neighborhood, Hotel Nell – Union Market is part of a destination rooted in the city’s rich culinary and cultural history. Originally established in 1931 as Union Terminal Market, the area quickly became a community gathering place, bringing together local farmers, retailers, and wholesalers to serve a growing Washington, D.C. The neighborhood’s legacy of connection, discovery, and hospitality continues today, with Hotel Nell offering guests an inviting and contemporary experience in one of the city’s most dynamic destinations. We are proud to be part of this evolving community and look forward to welcoming guests who come to experience all that Union Market and Washington, D.C. have to offer.

Position Summary

Salary Range: $18.40 - $20.00 per hour

As a Restaurant Host, you will be responsible for warmly greeting guests upon their arrival, ensuring they receive a positive first impression of the restaurant's friendliness and exceptional quality of service. Your role is crucial in setting the tone for a delightful dining experience. Additionally, you will be responsible for maintaining a cash bank, accurately handling transactions, and adhering to the cash handling procedures of the outlet. Your attention to detail and commitment to excellent service will contribute significantly to the overall guest satisfaction and smooth operation of the restaurant. This position requires PM shift availability. 

Essential Functions

• Greet guests upon arrival and assist those on the waiting list within the specified time frame.


• Promptly guide guests to their tables and offer assistance as needed.


• Handle reservation duties and maintain seating charts.


• Arrange for booster seats or high chairs as required.


• Notify the manager of any guests who appear dissatisfied.


• Bid farewell to guests as they leave and invite them to return.


• Keep the host station clean and organized; ensure all menus are clean.


• Replenish necessary supplies.


• Perform shift change and closing duties.


• Answer telephone calls and respond to questions.


• Keep the immediate supervisor informed of any significant problems or unusual matters.


• Help servers with cashiering and maintain accurate currency exchanges.


• Maintain the check control system according to standards and report any suspicious or mishandled guest checks.


• Help buspersons or servers rearrange seating for special or large parties.


• Assist buspersons or servers with light cleaning tasks as needed.


• Assist servers with sidework, including sorting and preparing service ware, rollups, or displays.

Additional Responsibilities:

• Adhere to Policies: Follow all work rules, procedures, and policies established by the hotel, including those in the employee handbook.


• Flexible Scheduling: Be prepared to work shifts that accommodate fluctuating business demands, including shifts outside of preferred or normal working hours.

Skills and Abilities

• Stamina: Ability to stand for extended periods.


• Communication: Strong oral communication skills.

Benefits and Perks

Donohoe Hospitality Services is pleased to offer employees a comprehensive Benefits Package that includes health, dental, and vision insurance, leaves of absences, retirement plans, paid time off, hotel room discounts. and MORE! Through this selection of benefits and perks, we strive to provide employees with options that will enhance their quality of life in and out of work. *minimum 32 hours/week to qualify

We also offer daily pay access where you can receive your earnings on the same day you work, empowering you to manage your finances easily and confidently.

If you're ready to bring your energy and skills to a team dedicated to delivering exceptional guest experiences, we want to hear from you! Apply today and be a key player in creating memorable moments for our guests.