Cafe Dining Room Host 1 - Reserve

Hosts will courteously greet and escort guests to tables and assist in seating, ensuring Biltmore standards of service. The incumbent will maintain flow of seating by section throughout serving period. Hosts will also assist in preparing the Restaurant for service and maintaining the cleanliness of the room at all times. Host will answer the telephone, take reservations and maintain reservation book and assist in monitoring the guests’ needs and all phases of the operation. The incumbent will also provide general assistance and support for the department, leadership, and company.

Shifts will generally be between 9:00AM - 6:00PM. Weekend availability is required.

Benefits include:

• Access to Biltmore's on-site health clinic, wellness programs, and health fairs for all employees
• Year-round access to the estate gardens and grounds and 40% off estate retail & dining
• Complimentary tickets based on the number of hours worked.
• And much more! 

Requirements:

• Previous customer/guest service experience strongly preferred.  The ideal candidate will have had previous food and beverage experience in the same or similar role in a full-service restaurant, preferably in an upscale service setting.
• Excellent communications skills, both verbal and written.
• Demonstrated commitment to providing world class guest service and the ability to work effectively as part of a service oriented team.
• Ability to think clearly and quickly in a fast-paced environment; must be able to exercise good judgment and maintain composure in pressure situations.
• Familiarity with and/or the ability to quickly become proficient with reservations software.  Knowledge of Open Table reservations system helpful.
• Perform job functions with attention to detail, speed and accuracy.
• Basic math skills and the ability to handle cash and credit transactions as needed.
• Ability to be proactive and take initiative where appropriate.
• Ability to present a professional image, in both appearance and demeanor, and handle guest situations in a manner consistent with Biltmore standards.
• Applicants must be at least 18. 

Physical Requirements: 

• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds on a regular basis and lift/push/pull up to 50 pounds occasionally.
• Endure various physical movements (stoop, kneel, bend, reach overhead, etc.) throughout work areas and over duration of work shift.
• Ability to remain ambulatory or in stationary position throughout work shift.
• Exposure to fumes, dust and chemicals
• ·Ability to work indoors and outside in an environment that may include variable temperature conditions and noise levels.

Essential Job Duties:

• Greet and acknowledge all arriving guests, however busy and whatever time of day.
• Escort guests to tables and assist in seating at tables; present menus and extend congenialities in accordance to department guidelines.
• Maintain an optimum flow of seating by section to best service guests.
• Extend courteous departures as guests leave the restaurant and invite them to return.
• Guide the Servers and Dining Room Assistants in table set-up needs to ensure optimum service to guests.
• Communicate V.I.P. arrivals and special requests to designated personnel for follow up.
• Answer restaurant telephone courteously and efficiently as specified in department standards.
• Take, record and confirm restaurant reservations/cancellations as specified in departmental standards.
• Accommodate all requests for information courteously.
• Anticipate guests’ needs, respond promptly and acknowledge all guests, however busy and whatever time of day. Maintain positive guest relations at all times.