Host - NAIA

DineAmic Hospitality•Chicago, IL

2d•$18 - $22•Onsite

About The Position

NAIA, a Greek-Levantine dining destination by DineAmic Hospitality located along the Chicago River in River North, is seeking hosts. Led by Chef Athinagoras Kostakos, NAIA offers a vibrant dining experience with mezze, seafood, wood-grilled specialties, and an extensive beverage program in a waterfront setting. The host role is crucial for delivering exceptional first and last impressions in a fast-paced, high-volume environment. Hosts manage guest flow, reservations, and waitlists, ensuring a welcoming and organized entrance. The ideal candidate is hospitality-driven, composed under pressure, communicates effectively, and collaborates with management and service staff to maintain a seamless dining experience. Hosts also support guest engagement initiatives and assist with various guest touchpoints.

Requirements

Previous restaurant host or customer service experience preferred (high-volume experience strongly preferred).
Experience with a guest reservation platform and POS system preferred; Open table and Toast strongly preferred.
Availability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as business demands.

Responsibilities

Greet every guest promptly with warmth, professionalism, and genuine hospitality.
Manage reservations, waitlists, and walk-in guests using the reservation system.
Accurately quote wait times and manage guest expectations.
Strategically seat guests to balance server sections and maintain optimal service flow.
Communicate effectively with managers and service staff regarding table status, pacing, special requests, and guest needs.
Maintain strong knowledge of restaurant offerings and policies to assist with guest inquiries.
Answer phones professionally and assist guests with reservations, carryout orders, and general inquiries.
Process carryout orders and payments accurately in accordance with company procedures.
Document event and large-party inquiries through the designated inquiry platform.
Maintain cleanliness and organization of the host stand, entrance, and lobby areas.
Monitor the dining room and entry areas to maintain a welcoming, organized, and well-paced environment.
Assist with menu presentation, coat check, and other guest touchpoints as needed.
Support service staff during peak periods to ensure smooth dining room operations.
Encourage guests to join the restaurant’s rewards program and share guest engagement initiatives when appropriate.
Complete opening, running, and closing side work as assigned.
Follow all company policies, sanitation guidelines, and hospitality standards.
Address guest concerns professionally and escalate issues to management when appropriate.
Contribute positively to team morale and support fellow team members during high-volume periods.
Complete additional duties as needed within the scope of the role.