The senior host is the lead ambassador of the Stereo 41 guest experience and the first and last point of contact for every guest. This role sets the tone for hospitality, manages the dining room flow, and oversees reservations, seating strategy, and VIP guest relations throughout service. Working within the OpenTable system and in close coordination with management and the service team, the Maître d’ ensures a seamless, elevated, and sensory-driven experience that reflects the standards of Stereo 41.
Key Responsibilities:
Warmly greet and welcome guests within 10 seconds of arrival while maintaining a polished and professional presence at the host stand.
Manage OpenTable reservations and waitlists with accuracy, discretion, and strategic pacing of the dining room.
Oversee table assignments and coordinate closely with the floor manager, servers, and kitchen to optimize guest flow and table turns.
Track VIP guests, special occasions, and dietary preferences using OpenTable guest notes and ensure personalized service whenever possible.
Communicate wait times clearly and professionally while keeping guests informed throughout their wait.
Maintain an organized, elegant, and brand-aligned host stand and entrance area at all times.
Answer phones professionally and manage inquiries related to reservations, private events, and special requests.
Escort guests to tables following rotation and pacing guidelines and ensure smooth handoff to the service team.
Ensure menus are clean and presentable and assist with light resetting and polishing as needed.
Thank guests sincerely upon departure and invite them to return, reinforcing Stereo 41’s hospitality culture.
Lead by example during peak service periods, maintaining calm, gracious composure and supporting the guest experience under pressure.
Support management with service coordination, guest recovery, and dining room oversight as needed.
Qualifications:
Previous Maître d’, Lead Host, or reservationist experience in a fine-dining or upscale restaurant environment is required.
Strong proficiency in OpenTable Guest Center, including floor plan management, guest tagging, and communication tools.
Exceptional verbal communication and interpersonal skills with a warm, confident, and professional demeanor.
Appearance and conduct aligned with Stereo 41’s brand and service standards.
Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to multitask in a high-energy environment.
Availability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays.
Physical Requirements:
Ability to stand and walk for up to 8 hours per shift.
Ability to lift up to 20 pounds occasionally.
Must be able to perform all job duties with or without reasonable accommodation. Stereo 41 engages in an interactive process to provide accommodations as required by law.