Restaurant Host/hostess

Overview:
Are you ready to be the welcoming face of our remarkable whisky destination?

Join our exceptional team at Scotland's first vertical distillery, nestled in the heart of Edinburgh's historic whisky district. In our extraordinary new building, boasting panoramic views of the Firth of Forth, Leith, and Edinburgh, we are creating an unparalleled guest experience.

We are seeking a charismatic and friendly Host to join our team, setting the stage for memorable visits and ensuring our guests feel warmly welcomed and attended to. As a Host, you will be the first point of contact for our guests in the bar, creating a positive and inviting atmosphere from the moment they arrive. With your exceptional customer service skills and attention to detail, you will oversee the smooth flow of guests, manage reservations, and provide personalised assistance, making every visit a truly unforgettable experience. Embrace the opportunity to be part of our ambitious journey, where your warmth and professionalism will contribute to making this whisky destination the talk of the town.

What you will do:

- Greet and welcome guests with a warm and friendly demeanour, ensuring they feel valued and attended to from the moment they arrive.
- Manage the reservation system, taking and confirming bookings, and ensuring accurate seating arrangements.
- Maintain knowledge of daily reservations, special requests, and guest preferences to personalise the dining experience.
- Coordinate the flow of guests, ensuring efficient seating and minimising wait times while maintaining a pleasant atmosphere.
- Communicate effectively with the bar and floor staff to facilitate smooth operations and provide accurate information about table availability and guest preferences.
- Provide guests with menus, explain specials, and answer any questions regarding the establishment, ensuring a positive and informative guest experience.
- Assist with taking food and beverage orders when necessary, accurately relaying guest requests to the kitchen and bar staff.
- Monitor and manage the waiting area, ensuring cleanliness, organisation, and comfort for guests during their wait.
- Handle guest inquiries, concerns, and feedback promptly and professionally, escalating issues to management when necessary.
- Maintain knowledge of the whisky selection, distillery information, and other offerings, providing accurate and engaging information to guests.
- Collaborate with team members to ensure a seamless guest experience, assisting with seating, bussing tables, and other tasks as needed.
- Adhere to all health and safety regulations and company policies, ensuring a safe and clean environment for both guests and team members.
- Embrace opportunities for learning and growth, participating in training sessions and staying updated on industry trends and customer service best practices.
- Uphold the company's standards of service excellence, consistently delivering a warm and personalised guest experience that reflects our commitment to quality and hospitality.

What you will have:

- Previous experience as a Host or in a customer-facing role, preferably in a restaurant or hospitality establishment.
- Exceptional customer service skills with a warm and professional demeanour.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact effectively with guests and team members.
- Strong organisational and multitasking abilities to handle guest flow and manage reservations effectively.
- Attention to detail to ensure accurate seating arrangements and personalised guest experiences.
- Flexibility in working hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as dictated by business needs.
- Ability to remain calm and composed in high-pressure situations, handling guest inquiries and concerns with professionalism and empathy.
- Knowledge of food and beverage offerings, including whiskies, would be advantageous.
- Basic computer skills and familiarity with reservation management systems.
- A positive attitude, adaptability, and a willingness to learn and grow within the role.
- Ability to work effectively as part of a team, collaborating with colleagues to ensure a welcoming and efficient guest experience.
- Additional language skills are advantageous.

What’s in it for you?
- We want to end the stigma attached to hospitality work-life balance. Schedules are focused on this
- A working environment representative of our company’s values.
- A fair share of service charge and tips + paid overtime.
- 28 days holidays per year
- Employee discount scheme.
- Employee bonus incentives.

**Job Types**: Part-time, Permanent

Pay: £12.00 per hour

Expected hours: 32 per week

Additional pay:

- Tips

**Benefits**:

- Company events
- Company pension
- Discounted or free food
- Employee discount

Schedule:

- 8 hour shift
- Overtime
- Weekend availability

**Experience**:

- Hospitality: 1 year (preferred)

Work Location: In person