Host – Gjelina NYC

Job Duties

• Guest Liaison: Serve as the primary point of contact, providing a warm “Gjelina Group” welcome and a positive first impression of the establishment.

• Reservation Management: Deliver an efficient reservations service, meticulously recording guest details and managing bookings via the restaurant’s computer/reservation system.

• Seating & Flow: Manage a 110-seat floor plan, balancing guest table preferences with strategic table rotation to ensure smooth service for the waitstaff.

• Waitlist Oversight: Monitor waiting lists, provide guests with accurate wait times, and escort them to their tables or waiting areas.

• Communication: Act as a central hub for service staff and management, clearly communicating floor updates, special guest needs, or service issues.

• Rapport Building: Identify and greet “regulars” while establishing rapport with new guests by noting their specific likes and dislikes.

• Inquiry Handling: Answer phone calls, respond to menu or beverage queries with knowledgeable answers, and provide general information about the venue’s aesthetics.

• Operational Support: Complete all assigned side work (pre- and post-shift), assist with other stations as needed, and support the management team during special events.

• Conflict Resolution: Identify and respond to guest complaints promptly, escalating unresolved issues to the floor manager when necessary.

Requirements

• Team Synergy: Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment while maintaining a calm and organized demeanor.

• Physical Stamina: Willingness to stand and walk for extended periods, climb stairs repetitively, and lift/move up to 45 pounds.

• Professional Presence: Maintain a neat, professional appearance with high standards of personal hygiene (no heavy perfumes).

• Technical Literacy: Proficiency in using restaurant Point of Sale (POS) systems and reservation software.

• Adaptability: Flexibility to work a varied schedule, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

• Hygiene & Safety: Comprehensive understanding of Department of Health rules, sanitation protocols, and alcohol control standards.

Qualifications

• Experience: 1–2 years of restaurant or related hospitality experience is preferred.

• Education/Training: Must complete state-approved Prevention of Sexual Harassment training.

• Skills: Basic math skills, excellent verbal/written communication, and strong problem-solving abilities.

Diversity & Inclusion at Gjelina Group

The Gjelina Group emphasizes a “climate of purposeful inclusion.” In the New York City restaurant industry, the workforce is notably diverse. Based on 2024-2025 industry-wide demographic data for the NYC Food Services sector, the following breakdown illustrates the community you will be joining:

NYC Restaurant Industry Demographics