Lead Host

Position : Lead Host Position Type: Full-time Location : Chicago, IL Reports to : General Manager /  Assistant General Manager About Us : Ox Bar and Hearth™ is a neighborhood restaurant in Lincoln Park, rooted in seasonality, hospitality, and craftsmanship. We’re building a team of passionate, talented individuals who take pride in delivering exceptional guest experiences in a warm, welcoming environment. Position Overview : We’re seeking a hospitality-forward Lead Host to join our team. The Lead Host ensures a seamless and welcoming guest experience by managing reservations, pacing the dining room, and coordinating with the co-host. This role requires excellent communication, grace under pressure, and a deep understanding of service flow and hospitality. The Lead Host is the main point of contact for guests and helps coordinate communication with the rest of the team. Key Responsibilities : Provide professional and warm hospitality at all times. Communicate between bar, kitchen, service team and leadership to ensure a consistent, timely and memorable experience for our guests. Warmly greet and seat guests with genuine hospitality and professionalism. Maintain an accurate plan and seating rotation. Communicate wait times and seating updates with clarity and warmth. Update table status in OpenTable.  Communicate special requests and notes with the team clearly. Recognize returning guests, maintain accurate guest notes and profiles. Anticipate guest needs and address them promptly. Manage the reservations and waitlist pace to maximize flow and minimize wait times. Adjust wait times and track table turns throughout service. Maintain a calm, composed demeanor. Train and support new Hosts in guest service, reservation tools, and floor procedures. Coach and delegate to Co-Hosts. Communicate clearly and consistently with leadership, service team, and the kitchen to adjust pacing as needed. Be ready to speak about our concept.  Show understanding of our food and beverage offerings.  Jump in where needed to help the team and the guest experience. Communicate clearly and consistently with leadership, service team, and the kitchen to adjust pacing as needed. Keep an eye on the entrance, lounge, and restrooms for cleanliness. Complete opening, mid-shift, and closing duties to our standards. Perform duties as assigned by leadership in order to drive and maintain our passion for hospitality, quality food and beverage. Support fellow team members during service.  Participate in daily preshift meetings. Qualifications : 2-3 years of experience in a Lead Host, Maître d’, or similar guest-facing role in an upscale or fine-dining restaurant. Strong working knowledge of the OpenTable reservation platform (or equivalent). Exceptional multitasking, time management, and organizational skills. Ability to lead with professionalism and coach others in a team setting. Friendly, proactive communicator who thrives in a fast-paced environment. Natural team player with a calm, solutions-oriented attitude. Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and navigate a physically active service environment. Weekend, evening, and holiday availability required. Job Type : Full-time Compensation : $22-24 / hr Benefits and Perks : Health Insurance, Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance, Dining Discounts and staff meals, Paid Sick Leave, PTO

Created: 2025-09-16