Host/ess

The Vineta Hotel, a landmark dating back to 1926 and a fine example of Mediterranean Revival architecture, has been restored to its former splendor in the heart of Palm Beach. Located two blocks from Worth Avenue, the hotel embodies the elegant, artistic life of a destination renowned for its restaurant scene, designer boutiques, and galleries. As the first U.S. property in the Oetker Hotels portfolio, The Vineta combines stylish décor with contemporary comfort, world-class cuisine, and unrivaled service to redefine luxury hospitality in Palm Beach.

About the role

The Restaurant Host/Hostess is the first point of contact for guests as they enter the restaurant. You will be responsible for greeting and seating guests, managing reservations, and ensuring a positive first impression and a seamless, luxury dining experience.

Responsibilities

• Greet guests warmly and professionally as they arrive, making them feel valued and appreciated to ensure a personal and memorable dining experience.
• Ensure a smooth and efficient flow of guests into the dining area, communicate waiting times and seating arrangements, and collaborate with servers and management to maximize guest satisfaction.
• Maintain awareness of special events, such as birthdays or anniversaries, and ensure these guests are recognized during their visit.
• Manage guest reservations in person or over the phone using the restaurant’s reservation system, provide information about the restaurant, estimate wait times, and ensure accurate and timely seating.
• Coordinate with management to accommodate large parties, special requests, or VIP guests, optimizing seating arrangements to balance customer flow and server workload.
• Escort guests to their table, offer menus, and inform them about the restaurant’s specials or promotions.
• Monitor the guest waiting area, offer beverages or small snacks where appropriate, ensure the area is neat, and keep waiting times minimal.
• Collaborate closely with servers, bartenders, kitchen staff, and other departments to coordinate timely service and manage seating assignments and guest needs efficiently.
• Track and report guest preferences or special requests, such as repeat visits or seating preferences, to enhance future experiences.
• Respond to guest feedback and resolve issues or complaints in a professional, calm, and solution-oriented manner; keep management informed of any concerns requiring immediate attention.
• Maintain the host stand, waiting area, lobby, entryway, and dining area clean and organized by straightening menus, wiping down surfaces, and helping reset tables during shifts.
• Support other staff during peak periods by running food, assisting guests, or handling other tasks as needed.
• Follow health and safety guidelines for food handling, sanitation, and cleaning procedures.
• Uphold the hotel’s luxury brand values by providing personalized service and anticipating guests’ needs without being intrusive.
• Ensure personal appearance and hygiene standards reflect a professional image for guests.
• Inspire an elevated level of creativity, personal commitment to service excellence, and a sense of gracious hospitality to enhance the restaurant’s luxury ambiance.

Requirements

• Minimum 1 year of work experience in a similar capacity with an understanding of luxury hotel standards of service.
• College degree in Hospitality Management or equivalent experience preferred.
• Ability to operate and maintain all departmental equipment, fully competent with POS systems.
• Fluent in English; other languages considered an asset.
• Full-time position with the ability to work flexible hours, including days, evenings, overnights, weekends, and holidays.
• Must be able to reach, bend, balance, and transport various objects weighing up to 50 lbs. during a shift.
• Outstanding ability to build and maintain relationships, demonstrated skill in making a naturally positive, lasting impression, and talent for recognizing and welcoming regular guests.
• Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis at the time of application. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Employer-paid health benefits package
• 401(k) plan matching program
• Comprehensive overall compensation package (PTO, holidays)
• Excellent training and development opportunities with Oetker Hotels
• Complimentary hotelier meals
• Complimentary dry cleaning