Tucked away within Santa Monica’s historic Bergamot Station, this fun, neighborhood restaurant opened in late June 2019 from Jeremy Fox. It takes inspiration from Jeremy’s Eastern European roots and California’s abundant produce, and imbues a sense of nostalgia, no matter when and where you grew up. He and Executive Chef Matthew Schaler’s comforting menu features a variety of California wood-grilled meats and fish, beautiful seasonal vegetable dishes and salads, handmade pastas and whimsical mashups like the “World Famous” Rose Petal Pie. The 250+ wine list, overseen by Sommelier Demetria Lewis, also features over 90 half bottle options, and the bar (aka “The Bird’s Nest”) is the perfect spot to post up for one of Bar Manager Stephanie Reading’s wildly creative cocktails or a classic Martini.

Every employee plays a crucial role in contributing to the positive guest experience through the chain of service. This experience is shaped by the service of food and beverage, where both Front of House (FOH) and Back of House (BOH) staff are essential. Each job description details how an individual contributes to this chain, and all hourly employees participate in the tip pool as compensation for their roles. Service relies on food, and guests enjoy that food through effective service. As a Lead Host, your responsibility is to oversee and guide the hosting team, greet guests in a timely, welcoming, and warm manner, and maintain a well-organized seating and service area. You must also ensure that important guest information is communicated effectively to the appropriate team members, while exhibiting the Rustic Canyon standard of hospitality.

The Lead Host is responsible for working quickly and efficiently to support the team, maintain high standards, and take a leadership role in managing the flow of service.

As a Lead Host, your job responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Lead and Oversee the Hosting Team: Act as the primary point of contact for the hosting team, providing guidance, support, and feedback to ensure smooth operations.
• Maintain Seating Flow: Maximize seating efficiency while preventing the service or kitchen staff from being overwhelmed, in a friendly and communicative manner.
• Reservation Management: Manage reservations over the phone, including answering calls, returning voicemail requests, and confirming reservations accurately in the RESY reservation system.
• Monitor Online Reservations: Ensure online reservation slots are balanced, updated, and accurate throughout the night.
• Walk-Ins and Waitlist: Seat walk-in guests and manage waitlists for guests without reservations, ensuring clear communication about wait times.
• Guest Communication: Communicate clearly and confidently with guests regarding reservations, special requests, wait times, and menu options, including policies like corkage fees.
• Special Requests: Alert servers and kitchen staff about any special guest needs or important information.
• Coordinate Table Settings: Work with bussers to ensure tables are set correctly and efficiently for upcoming parties.
• Collaborate with the Bar: Manage bar tab transfers and drink order communication.
• Maintain Host Desk and Guest Areas: Keep the host desk clean and organized, manage flowers and candles, and ensure guest-facing areas like the lounge and restrooms are presentable.
• Monitor Supplies and Report Needs: Inform management of any supply requirements.
• Attend Pre-Shift Meetings: Participate in mandatory pre-shift meetings to stay updated on the current menu, specials, and service expectations.
• Take-Out Orders: Handle take-out orders and payment transactions as needed.
• Event Coordination: Assist with special events and large party seating arrangements.
• Training and Mentorship: Train new hosts and ensure they are up to date on standards and expectations.
• Basic Cleaning Tasks: Perform minor cleaning tasks as needed or directed by supervisors.

• Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and manage a team.
• Ability to follow and give clear verbal instructions in English.
• Fundamental understanding of sanitation, cleanliness, and personal hygiene.
• Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities.
• Regular, reliable attendance.
• Friendly, outgoing demeanor with excellent customer service skills.
• Flexibility with assignments and shift schedules.
• Initiative and problem-solving skills to address issues in real time.
• Effective verbal communication skills with team members and guests.

• Requires moderate physical effort, including standing for extended periods, carrying, bending, stretching, and lifting up to 50 pounds.

• Exposure to noise, heat, temperature changes, kitchen elements, odors, and moisture.
• Evening, weekend, and holiday shifts may be required.

To create and maintain a professional and friendly environment, the following guidelines apply to the Lead Host’s attire:

• Dresses/Skirts/Tops: Should not be too short or low-cut.
• Shirts/Blouses/Blazers: Must be pressed, professional, and logo-free.
• Denim/Slacks: Should be dark in color, with no holes, rips, or tears.
• Business Casual Appearance: Overall look should be clean, polished, and professional.
• Footwear: No athletic shoes; footwear should be polished and professional.
• Accessories: Tasteful and not distracting.

This position requires an individual who can confidently manage the host team while maintaining excellent guest experiences and ensuring smooth front-of-house operations.