Job Overview: Taverna Maui is seeking a friendly and organized Restaurant Host to join our team. The Host is the primary point of contact for guests at Taverna, responsible for managing the waitlist, planning seating for guests, and overseeing the smooth flow of diners throughout the restaurant. They play a crucial role in ensuring a positive first impression and a memorable dining experience for every guest.

*This job receives Tips get to the suggested wage

Responsibilities:

Guest Greeting and Waitlist Management:

• Create a welcoming and hospitable environment for guests, whether in person or over the phone.
• Partner with Managers to quote accurate wait times while “finding the yes” for all guests.
• Efficiently assess needs and manage waitlists during peak hours, providing accurate wait time estimates.
• Engage guests in friendly conversation while they wait, creating a welcoming atmosphere.
• Utilize OpenTable and TOAST POS to manage reservations and seating arrangements.
• Answer phones and schedule reservations, coordinating shuttles.
• Ensure coverage and communicate expectations before stepping away from the host stand.
• Maintain knowledge and understanding of every item on the menu and answer guest questions with clarity and confidence, providing recommendations upon request.

Seating & Guest Care:

• Act as a liaison between the guest, management, service staff, and kitchen, and communicate accordingly.
• Attend to any immediate needs, offering menus, water, and answering basic questions.
• Communicate effectively with the Runner Host to ensure seamless and timely seating.
• Maintain a detailed guest log in OpenTable with notes for future visits and service staff reference.
• Gather notes from Servers about our guests, updating regarding repeat and regular guests.
• Communicate delays and status updates to guests in a caring way, informing a manager when delays are exceeding “reasonable” time.

Restaurant Management and Communication:

• Brief Team at Pre-Shift on shift reservations and special requests.
• Monitor restaurant traffic and flow, directing guests and adjusting seating arrangements as needed.
• Collaborate with the Runner Host and service staff to ensure efficient guest service and timely table turnover.
• Assist with resolving guest concerns and inquiries professionally and promptly.
• Maintain open communication with management about guest feedback and restaurant operations.

Professionalism and Aloha Spirit:

• Project a positive and professional demeanor at all times.
• Embody the "Aloha spirit" through warm hospitality, genuine kindness, and a positive attitude.
• Become familiar with Regulars and welcome them “Home.”
• Maintain a neat and professional appearance aligned with Taverna's dress code.

Qualifications/Skills:

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to connect with diverse guests.
• Strong organizational and time management skills, capable of handling multiple tasks efficiently under pressure.
• Familiarity with OpenTable and TOAST POS restaurant management software.
• Proactive and detail-oriented with a strong sense of initiative.
• Ability to adapt to changing situations and maintain a positive attitude.
• Passion for providing exceptional customer service and fostering memorable guest experiences.
• Embraces the "Aloha spirit" and thrives in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

Benefits:

• Competitive pay
• Subsidized housing
• Medical, Dental, and Vision benefits available (for those who qualify)
• Paid Time Off accruement after 1 year of employment

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time

Pay: $20.00 - $25.00 per hour

Expected hours: 20 – 40 per week

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Vision insurance

Physical setting:

• Upscale casual restaurant

Shift:

• 4 hour shift
• Night shift

Ability to Commute:

• Lahaina, HI 96761 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Lahaina, HI 96761: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person