Host / Hostess
Grayson's
Bar • Restaurant • Estate
An elevated dining experience at the award-winning Goodstone Estate.
Location: Middleburg, Virginia
Job Type: Full-Time or Part-Time
Compensation: Starting at $16.00 per hour, based on experience
About Grayson's at Goodstone
Grayson's at Goodstone is the culinary heart of Goodstone, a luxury estate nestled in Virginia's Hunt Country. Our restaurant offers a refined yet welcoming dining experience featuring estate-inspired cuisine, locally sourced ingredients, and exceptional hospitality.
Every guest interaction matters. As the first and last person our guests encounter, our Hosts set the tone for the entire dining experience. We are looking for warm, professional individuals who enjoy creating memorable first impressions while keeping our dining room running smoothly.
Why You'll Love Working Here
At Grayson's, hospitality is more than service—it's creating meaningful experiences. You'll work alongside a passionate team in one of Virginia's premier luxury destinations while building valuable hospitality and leadership skills.
We offer:
- Beautiful estate setting in Middleburg, Virginia
- Family meal during scheduled shifts
- Employee discounts at Goodstone and Grayson's
- Opportunities for advancement within the restaurant and hospitality teams
- Supportive leadership focused on coaching and development
- Full-time team members become eligible for benefits beginning on Day 61
- 401(k) with company match after one year
- Paid Time Off and Sick Leave (eligible positions)
- Employee Referral Bonus Program
Your Opportunity
The Host is responsible for creating an exceptional first impression for every guest while managing reservations, seating, and guest flow throughout each service. This role serves as the communication hub between guests and the restaurant team, ensuring each guest receives a warm welcome and an outstanding dining experience from arrival through departure.
The ideal candidate is friendly, organized, poised under pressure, and genuinely enjoys providing exceptional hospitality.
What You'll Do
- Welcome every guest with warmth, professionalism, and genuine hospitality
- Manage reservations using OpenTable or reservation software
- Coordinate seating to maximize guest satisfaction and restaurant efficiency
- Maintain accurate wait times and communicate them clearly to guests
- Escort guests to their tables and introduce them to their server
- Monitor dining room flow and communicate with managers and service staff
- Answer incoming phone calls professionally and assist with reservations
- Assist with special requests and guest accommodations whenever possible
- Maintain a clean, organized, and welcoming host stand
- Ensure menus are clean, organized, and presented professionally
- Support servers and management during busy service periods
- Assist with opening and closing duties
- Provide guests with information about the estate, restaurant, menus, and special events
- Handle guest concerns professionally and involve management when appropriate
- Uphold Grayson's luxury service standards at all times
- Perform other duties as assigned
What We're Looking For
Required Qualifications
- Previous restaurant or hospitality experience preferred
- Exceptional customer service skills
- Friendly, outgoing personality with a polished, professional appearance
- Excellent communication skills
- Strong organizational and multitasking abilities
- Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment
- Reliable transportation
- Ability to remain calm under pressure
- Flexible schedule including evenings, weekends, and holidays
- Ability to work effectively as part of a team
Preferred Skills
- Experience with OpenTable or similar reservation systems
- Fine dining or luxury hospitality experience
- Knowledge of wine, food, and hospitality etiquette
- Strong attention to detail
- Positive attitude and willingness to help wherever needed
Career Growth
Many of our restaurant leaders began in hourly hospitality positions. This role offers opportunities to grow into positions including:
- Lead Host
- Server
- Bartender
- Restaurant Floor Supervisor
- Guest Relations
- Restaurant Management
We believe in promoting from within whenever possible.
Benefits
Eligible team members may receive:
- Medical Insurance
- Dental Insurance
- Vision Insurance
- Short-Term Disability
- Long-Term Disability
- Life Insurance
- 401(k) with Company Match
- Paid Time Off
- Sick Leave
- Employee Dining Discounts
- Employee Referral Bonus Program
Work Schedule
This position requires flexibility and may include:
- Days
- Evenings
- Weekends
- Holidays
- Special Events
- Over time, as business demands require
Physical Requirements
While performing the duties of this position, the employee will regularly:
- Stand and walk for extended periods
- Lift and carry up to 25 pounds
- Frequently bend, reach, and move throughout the restaurant
- Use a computer, a reservation system, and a telephone
- Work in a fast-paced hospitality environment
- Occasionally work outdoors while greeting guests or supporting estate events
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.
Additional Information
This job description is intended to describe the general responsibilities and requirements of this position. Duties may change based on business needs and operational requirements.
Equal Employment Opportunity
Goodstone is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where all team members are valued and respected. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.
Goodstone is also a drug-free workplace. Pre-employment and, where permitted by law, ongoing drug and alcohol screenings may be required as a condition of employment.
This position aligns with the hospitality standards and guest service expectations established for Goodstone's Guest Services and restaurant operations.
Goodstone Inn & Restaurant is a privately owned, luxury property located just minutes from the heart of Middleburg, Virginia. Set on a stunning countryside estate, Goodstone offers elevated dining, unique accommodations, and curated guest experiences that go far beyond traditional hospitality.
At Goodstone, we are known for delivering thoughtful, high-touch service where every detail matters. Our guests expect an exceptional experience—and our team delivers it.
We’re a group of passionate, hands-on professionals who take pride in our work. This is not a “clock in, clock out” environment. It’s a place for people who care about hospitality, enjoy working as part of a team, and want to be part of something that feels special every single day.
As part of the Goodstone team, you’ll be empowered to take ownership of your role, think creatively, and contribute to an environment where excellence is the standard—not the goal.
Why Join Goodstone?
Be part of a tight-knit, high-performing team that genuinely supports each other
Work in a unique, luxury setting where no two days feel the same
Gain hands-on experience across departments and grow your hospitality career
Have a direct impact on the guest experience—your work truly matters here
Join a culture built on accountability, professionalism, and pride in service
If you’re someone who:
Brings Energy, Attention to Detail, and a Passion for Hospitality, You Will Fit Right In!