Host - Zaytinya LA

Jose Andres Group (JAG) is a renowned hospitality company led by the visionary Chef Jose Andres, known globally for its commitment to providing outstanding guest experiences, culinary innovation, and a values-driven culture. Operating across various acclaimed restaurant concepts worldwide, JAG is dedicated to excellence, inclusivity, and transformative dining experiences. The company emphasizes a culture of respect, teamwork, and continuous growth, ensuring that every team member contributes to its mission of changing the world through the power of food. JAG’s dynamic and inclusive environment nurtures talent and fosters professional development, making it a sought-after employer within the hospitality industry.

The role of Host/Hostess/Guest Services within the Jose Andres Group is a vital frontline position, responsible for welcoming guests and managing the flow of the dining room to ensure a smooth and memorable experience. As the first and last impression in the dining experience, hosts embody the warmth and professionalism that JAG is famous for. This hourly, non-exempt role reports to a Floor Manager, Assistant General Manager, or General Manager within the Front of House – Guest Services department.

Hosts greet guests with genuine warmth and professionalism, manage reservations using industry-standard platforms like Resy, SevenRooms, or TOCK, and oversee the waitlist and seating arrangements to optimize table utilization while balancing guest pacing with kitchen and bar operations. They ensure dining sections are assigned based on server rotation and floor plans, monitor table status closely, and provide timely updates to guests to manage expectations with empathy and clear communication.

In addition to guest reception, the position requires hosts to communicate effectively with servers and management by sharing pertinent details such as guest allergies, preferences, celebrations, and VIP status. They also address guest concerns with poise, escalating issues to management when necessary, while maintaining courteous phone and email etiquette.

Hosts contribute to maintaining the cleanliness and organization of the host stand, entryway, menus, and signage, ensuring all areas are presentation-ready. They perform lobby checks, coat checks where applicable, restroom spot checks, and support ADA accessibility standards. The role also involves updating event and menu signage daily, using reservation and POS technologies accurately, and supporting to-go or pickup coordination efforts.

Compliance with Department of Health standards, allergy protocols, crowd management practices, responsible alcohol service policies, and safety regulations are critical aspects of this role. Furthermore, hosts collaborate closely with servers, runners, bar staff, and management to uphold ticket times and optimize the overall guest experience. Participation in pre-shift meetings and ongoing training is expected, alongside exemplifying JAG’s core values of professionalism, inclusivity, and dedication.