Host/Hostess

Job Description

As a Host / Hostess, you will serve as one of the first points of contact for guests visiting Delmonico Steakhouse and play a vital role in setting the tone for the entire dining experience. You will create a warm and polished first impression, manage reservations and seating, coordinate the flow of the dining room, and ensure every guest feels genuinely welcomed from arrival through departure. 

Responsibilities:

• Greet and welcome guests warmly, professionally, and confidently upon arrival while creating an elevated first impression consistent with Delmonico Steakhouse and Fairmont New Orleans standards
• Serve as a gracious ambassador of Delmonico Steakhouse, Chef Emeril Lagasse, and Fairmont New Orleans by demonstrating genuine New Orleans hospitality
• Manage restaurant reservations, seating assignments, waitlists, and guest preferences using the designated reservation system
• Monitor reservations and dining room capacity throughout service to optimize table utilization, pacing, and overall guest experience
• Escort guests to their tables while providing menus and communicating relevant information regarding the restaurant, menu, and dining experience
• Maintain detailed knowledge of the Delmonico Steakhouse menu, signature dishes, premium steak offerings, wine and spirits program, hours of operation, dress code, and restaurant amenities
• Develop an understanding of the culinary philosophy behind Delmonico Steakhouse and Chef Emeril Lagasse's approach to New Orleans cuisine to confidently answer guest questions
• Communicate menu highlights, special offerings, dining experiences, and appropriate restaurant information in a polished and engaging manner
• Maintain awareness of guest preferences, special occasions, VIPs, repeat guests, and other relevant details to create personalized experiences
• Monitor dining room activity and collaborate closely with Servers, Managers, Culinary, and other Food & Beverage colleagues to maintain smooth service flow
• Coordinate table assignments and seating rotations in a manner that supports both guest satisfaction and operational efficiency
• Communicate estimated wait times accurately and manage guest expectations throughout periods of high volume 
• Maintain accurate waitlists and proactively communicate with guests regarding table availability. 
• Answer restaurant telephone calls promptly and professionally while assisting with reservations, menu inquiries, guest questions, and operational communications
• Respond to guest requests, concerns, and special accommodations with professionalism, discretion, and a genuine desire to assist
• Support guest recovery efforts by addressing concerns appropriately and involving management when necessary
• Maintain a polished and welcoming host stand, entrance, waiting area, and surrounding dining spaces at all times 
• Ensure menus, reservation materials, seating areas, and other guest-facing materials are clean, organized, and properly presented
• Assist with VIP arrivals, special occasions, private dining, and other elevated guest experiences. 
• Coordinate with the appropriate teams regarding birthdays, anniversaries, celebrations, dietary considerations, accessibility needs, and other guest preferences 
• Support the restaurant during peak periods, special events, holidays, and high-volume service while maintaining composure and exceptional service standards 
• Maintain familiarity with Fairmont New Orleans hotel amenities, dining outlets, events, services, and local attractions to confidently assist guests with inquiries and recommendations
• Assist with opening and closing duties, side work, cleaning, stocking, and other operational responsibilities as assigned 
• Follow all hotel, restaurant, food safety, sanitation, security, and workplace safety policies and procedures
• Maintain a professional appearance and polished demeanor consistent with Fairmont New Orleans and Delmonico Steakhouse luxury standards
• Consistently demonstrate teamwork, professionalism, discretion, and a commitment to creating memorable guest experiences
• Uphold the culinary and hospitality standards associated with Chef Emeril Lagasse, Delmonico Steakhouse, and Fairmont New Orleans
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support operational excellence

Qualifications

• Previous host/hostess, restaurant, luxury hotel, fine-dining, hospitality, or guest service experience preferred 
• Previous experience in an upscale or luxury dining environment strongly preferred. 
• Passion for hospitality, food, beverage, and creating exceptional guest experiences 
• Strong interest in fine dining and the ability to develop detailed knowledge of premium steakhouse cuisine 
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills 
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to interact confidently and graciously with a diverse clientele 
• Exceptional organizational and multitasking abilities
• Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail. 
• Ability to remain composed, polished, and professional in a fast-paced, high-volume environment 
• Positive, personable, and service-oriented attitude
• Professional appearance and polished demeanor required 
• Strong problem-solving and guest recovery skills 
• Previous experience with OpenTable, SevenRooms, Micros, or comparable reservation/POS systems is an asset; training will be provided 
• Basic computer skills and the ability to accurately input and access information using restaurant technology 
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including mornings, evenings, weekends, holidays, late-night shifts, and extended shifts as operationally required 
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States 

Preferred Skills:   

• Knowledge of luxury hospitality and fine-dining service standards
• Strong understanding of restaurant reservations, seating flow, table management, and guest experience 
• Ability to anticipate guest needs and proactively identify opportunities to enhance the dining experience 
• Strong knowledge of New Orleans hospitality, culture, dining, and local attractions is an asset
• Ability to communicate confidently and professionally with VIPs, repeat guests, hotel guests, and local clientele 
• Strong attention to detail with the ability to maintain accuracy during high-volume service. 
• Ability to remain calm and gracious when managing wait times, guest concerns, or unexpected changes 
• Strong teamwork and communication skills with both Front of House and Culinary teams
• Genuine passion for creating memorable experiences and representing a world-class hospitality brand

Additional Information

Join our team and enjoy a range of exclusive colleague perks, including complimentary upgrades, extended stays, discounted stays across Fairmont & Raffles properties, special dining and wellness discounts, and added luxuries to enhance your experience. We believe in taking care of our team, ensuring that your hard work is rewarded with exceptional benefits. In addition to being part of a world-class luxury hospitality brand, team members enjoy a comprehensive benefits package designed to support their health, well-being, and financial future, including:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Paid Time Off and Holiday Pay
• 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Colleague Dining Program
• Career Growth and Development Opportunities
• Recognition and Rewards Programs

Our Values

Respect:
We value the needs, ideas and individuality of others. We treat everyone with fairness and dignity. 

Excellence:
We make genuine connections, and we cherish every opportunity to make the people around us feel special.​

Belonging:
We celebrate our differences. We support each other and we always stand together.​

Empowerment:
We have authority to take initiative and anticipate moments that create unforgettable experiences. ​

Integrity:
We build trust through mutual respect and being authentic.​

Diversity & Inclusion

Fairmont is committed to creating an inclusive environment where diverse talent thrives. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds to join our team.