Host (550 Madison)

Gracious Hospitality Management is an acclaimed hospitality company known for its commitment to excellence and innovation in the restaurant industry. The company has built a reputation for creating unique dining experiences that combine exceptional service, culinary artistry, and immersive environments. Gracious Hospitality Management focuses on delivering high-quality hospitality services while fostering a positive and dynamic workplace culture. Their dedication to both guests and employees makes them a sought-after employer in the competitive dining sector.

In Spring 2026, Gracious Hospitality Management is launching its most ambitious project yet: 550 Madison. This development is a striking multi-level, 15,000-square-foot dining destination located inside the iconic Sony Building in Midtown Manhattan. The venue will host three distinct dining concepts: the much-anticipated second New York location of the Michelin-starred COTE Korean Steakhouse, the all-day multi-bar and dining concept Chimera, and the intimate sushi restaurant Sushi Yoshitake, led by Michelin-starred chef Masahiro Yoshitake. The design by the renowned Rockwell Group, with a collaboration from Yoshio Itai on the sushi concept, promises to elevate the dining experience and offer an unforgettable journey for customers.

The company is seeking dynamic and experienced team members to join their award-winning hospitality team across a wide range of positions including prep cook, polisher, line cook, porter, receiver, pastry cook, drink runner, server assistant, server, food runner, and host. These roles are essential to ensuring the smooth operation of this new destination and maintaining the high standards for which Gracious Hospitality Management is known.

Gracious Hospitality values employees who bring passion and enthusiasm for hospitality. Comprehensive on-site training is provided to all qualified and motivated candidates, ensuring they have the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive within the operation. The company’s onboarding process includes resume screening, interviews, open call hiring events, a training phase before the grand opening, and opportunities to participate in friends and family service events. This structured approach reflects the company’s investment in team member development and its commitment to operational excellence.

The host role, a critical position in the front-of-house team, involves welcoming guests, managing reservations, overseeing coat check and front entry areas, and ensuring a seamless customer journey. This role requires excellent interpersonal skills, organizational ability, and professionalism under pressure. Hosts act as the face of the restaurant, providing warm greetings and effective communication to ensure guests feel valued and well cared for. The position requires stamina and physical engagement, including extensive periods of standing, walking, and the ability to lift up to 50 pounds.

A competitive pay range of $19 to $25 per hour is offered, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Gracious Hospitality Management also provides a comprehensive benefits package that covers medical, dental, and vision insurance, flexible spending accounts, commuter benefits, referral bonuses, career advancement opportunities, employee recognition, dining discounts, and paid time off. The company is committed to diversity and inclusion, offering equal employment opportunities regardless of race, color, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, or other protected classifications.

Working at 550 Madison offers employees the chance to be part of a landmark project that merges creativity, world-class cuisine, and stellar service. It promises a vibrant, collaborative work environment where every team member can contribute meaningfully and grow professionally. If you are passionate about hospitality and eager to be part of a renowned team, Gracious Hospitality Management's 550 Madison project could be your ideal next career step.