Host

Description:

Holy City Hospitality is a Charleston-based restaurant, catering, and events company built around inventive cooking, gracious service, and memorable guest experiences across concepts including 39 Rue de Jean, Coast Bar & Grill, Virginia’s on King, Vincent Chicco’s, Victor’s Seafood & Steak, Good Food Catering, and its event venues. These job descriptions reflect the company’s service-focused culture and high standards.

Host

The Host is the first and last impression of the restaurant and plays a critical role in creating exceptional guest experiences. This position is responsible for greeting guests warmly, managing reservations and waitlists, coordinating table seating, and ensuring smooth communication between guests and the service team. Successful hosts are organized, personable, and thrive in a fast-paced hospitality environment.

Essential Responsibilities

• Welcome guests with genuine hospitality and create a positive first impression.
• Manage reservations, walk-in guests, and waitlists using the restaurant reservation platform.
• Accurately estimate wait times and communicate expectations to guests.
• Coordinate seating assignments to ensure balanced server sections and efficient table turns.
• Answer phones and respond professionally to guest inquiries regarding reservations, menus, hours, and special events.
• Assist guests with special requests, accessibility needs, and celebrations.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the host stand, entrance, and waiting areas.
• Assist with menu distribution and guest flow during busy service periods.
• Communicate effectively with managers, servers, bartenders, and kitchen staff regarding table status and guest needs.
• Support the service team with light front-of-house duties as needed.
• Follow all company policies, safety standards, and guest service procedures.

Qualifications

• Previous restaurant or customer service experience preferred but not required.
• Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities.
• Ability to remain calm and professional during busy periods.
• Comfortable using reservation and POS systems.
• Availability to work evenings, weekends, holidays, and special events.
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods and lift up to 20 pounds.

Preferred Characteristics

• Friendly, outgoing, and professional demeanor.
• Strong attention to detail and time management skills.
• Ability to think quickly and solve problems with a guest-first mindset.
• Team-oriented attitude and willingness to assist wherever needed.
• Passion for hospitality and creating memorable guest experiences.

This position offers opportunities for advancement within Holy City Hospitality's restaurants, catering operations, and event venues for individuals interested in growing a career in hospitality and guest service.

Requirements:

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for up to 8 hours per shift.
• Ability to move throughout the restaurant frequently during service.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 20 pounds occasionally.