Big Woods Edinburgh: Host Hostess

Big Woods Restaurants, a local brand with a passion for hospitality, has its roots in Indiana. What began as a single location has grown into a family of 10 and continues to expand, serving various communities across the state, including Nashville. We firmly believe that every guest who walks through our doors deserves more than just a meal; they deserve an unforgettable experience. At Big Woods Restaurants, we take immense pride in our warm and welcoming hospitality. Our commitment goes beyond providing excellent service; it extends to our dedication to showcasing the best of Indiana. We proudly offer a carefully curated selection of local brews, handcrafted cocktails, and heartwarming Midwestern comfort food. As part of our extended family, we work hand-in-hand with our sister companies, including Hard Truth Restaurant, Hard Truth Distilling Co., and Quaff ON! Brewing Co. Together, we’re more than just a group of businesses; we’re sharing our love for craft and community with every guest we serve.

Big Woods Restaurants is looking to hire a Host. This is an hourly position with TIP sharing!

We are seeking a friendly and enthusiastic Host to welcome and greet guests as they arrive at our establishment. The ideal candidate will have excellent interpersonal skills, a warm demeanor, and a genuine passion for providing exceptional customer service. As a Host, you will be the first point of contact for our guests, setting the tone for their dining experience and ensuring they feel valued and well taken care of from the moment they step through our doors.

Key Responsibilities:

• Warmly greet and welcome guests as they enter the restaurant, creating a positive and inviting atmosphere.

• Manage the reservation system, accurately record reservations, and communicate effectively with the kitchen and waitstaff to ensure seamless seating arrangements.

• Maintain a well-organized and tidy front-of-house area, including the host/hostess station and waiting area.

• Provide accurate wait time estimates to guests during peak dining hours and manage guest expectations while ensuring their comfort.

• Escort guests to their designated tables, presenting menus, and informing them of any specials or promotions.

• Anticipate and accommodate special requests and needs of guests, such as high chairs, wheelchair accessibility, or specific seating preferences.

• Handle guest inquiries, complaints, and concerns with professionalism and promptness, escalating issues as necessary to management.

• Collaborate with wait staff to coordinate seating, manage guest flow, and facilitate a smooth dining experience for both guests and employees.

• Maintain knowledge of the restaurant's offerings, including menu items, beverages, and daily specials, to assist guests with informed choices.

• Manage the waitlist efficiently during busy periods, keeping guests informed about wait times and seating availability.

• Assist in maintaining the cleanliness and organization of the front-of-house area, including menus, condiments, and decor.

• Thank guests for dining with us as they leave the restaurant and inquire about their experience.

• Contribute to a positive team environment by effectively communicating with colleagues and providing support as needed.

Qualifications and Skills:

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage with guests in a friendly and professional manner.

• Strong organizational skills to manage reservations, guest flow, and waitlist efficiently.

• Ability to handle high-pressure situations and manage guest expectations during peak dining hours.

• Adaptability and flexibility to accommodate changing business needs and guest preferences.

• Basic computer literacy to manage reservation systems and seating arrangements.

Requirements:

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.

• Lift and carry items weighing up to 20 pounds.

• Navigate potentially crowded spaces with ease.

• Must be 16+ years of age.

• Weekend availability.

Benefits:

• Discounts on meals and merchandise.

• Potential for upward mobility and growth.

• Flexible scheduling.