Job Description

• Warmly greet and welcome guests upon arrival while creating a positive and professional first impression.
• Serve as an ambassador of The Café by Chef Emeril and Fairmont New Orleans by delivering genuine, approachable New Orleans hospitality.
• Manage reservations, seating assignments, waitlists, and guest preferences using the designated reservation system.
• Escort guests to tables and provide menus while communicating relevant information about The Café.
• Maintain knowledge of menu offerings, daily features, beverages, coffee and espresso selections, hours of operation, and restaurant amenities.
• Develop knowledge of Chef Emeril Lagasse's culinary philosophy and the New Orleans influences represented throughout The Café.
• Confidently answer guest questions and provide appropriate information regarding menu items and restaurant offerings.
• Monitor dining room activity and coordinate closely with Servers, Culinary, Management, and other Food & Beverage colleagues to maintain smooth service flow.
• Manage table rotations and seating assignments while considering guest preferences and operational needs.
• Communicate estimated wait times accurately and manage guest expectations during periods of high volume.
• Maintain accurate waitlists and communicate with guests regarding table availability.
• Answer telephone calls promptly and professionally while assisting with reservations, guest inquiries, and operational communications.
• Respond to guest requests, concerns, and special accommodations with warmth, professionalism, and discretion.
• Assist with guest recovery efforts and involve leadership when appropriate.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the host stand, entrance, waiting areas, and dining spaces.
• Ensure menus, guest-facing materials, and seating areas are clean and properly presented.
• Assist with VIP guests, special occasions, hotel events, and other elevated guest experiences.
• Maintain familiarity with Fairmont New Orleans amenities, services, outlets, events, and local attractions to assist guests.
• Support the outlet during peak periods and high-volume service while maintaining composure and hospitality standards.
• Assist with opening and closing duties, stocking, cleaning, and other operational responsibilities.
• Maintain a polished and professional appearance consistent with Fairmont New Orleans standards.
• Follow all hotel, restaurant, safety, sanitation, and service policies and procedures.
• Uphold the hospitality and culinary standards associated with Chef Emeril Lagasse and Fairmont New Orleans.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Previous host/hostess, restaurant, café, hotel, hospitality, or guest service experience preferred.
• Luxury hotel or upscale dining experience is an asset.
• Passion for hospitality, food, beverage, and creating exceptional guest experiences.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities.
• Ability to remain professional, composed, and welcoming in a fast-paced environment.
• Professional appearance and polished demeanor required.
• Strong guest service mindset with the ability to create positive and memorable interactions.
• Basic computer skills and familiarity with reservation or POS systems preferred.
• Ability to learn and communicate detailed menu and outlet information.
• Strong teamwork and communication skills.
• Knowledge of New Orleans hospitality, culture, and local attractions is an asset.
• Ability to work flexible schedules, including mornings, evenings, weekends, holidays, and extended shifts as operationally required.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States.

Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.