Host at Hawksmoor in Chicago, IL

Hosts/Reservations – Hawksmoor Chicago Chicago is the historical powerhouse of American beef, and when Hawksmoor found out about an actual powerhouse building, it felt like fate. So, after years of dreaming, we set out eyes on Chicago and found ourselves a home. The LaSalle Street Cable Car Powerhouse is a beautiful, designated landmark, initially opened in 1887, in the heyday of Chicago’s cable car system. We restore some of the original features to their former glory and, at the same time, breathed new life into the space. Reporting to the Restaurant Manager, we are looking for Hosts to join our team! As a Hawksmoor Host / Reservationist, you are central to the smooth running of the restaurant and the first point of connection for our Guests. From the initial enquiry to arrival and departure, you help ensure every guest feels genuinely welcomed and well looked after. By consistently upholding Hawksmoor’s service standards and values, and working collaboratively with the wider team, you help ensure every guest receives warm, knowledgeable, and genuine hospitality. Hawksmoor is proud to be an inclusive workplace that welcomes everyone and lives by its values. Guest Experience Answer phone calls, emails, and guest reviews warmly and professionally, following Hawksmoor tone, style, and standards. Manage reservations accurately and efficiently using OpenTable. Use the Triple Seat platform to respond to guest inquiries and manage group bookings. Welcome and check in guests with warmth and genuine hospitality, managing table statuses and coat check when required. Communicate clearly and proactively with the kitchen, bar, and floor teams, regarding guest notes, preferences, and special requests. Maintain accurate and detailed guest profiles, including VIPs, JTR, celebrations, and special requirements. Demonstrate confident menu knowledge and make informed recommendations when needed. Clearly explain group dining options and sharing menus, guiding guests to the best experience for their needs. Maintain up-to-date menu knowledge and handle guest feedback, complaints, or quality issues with confidence and professionalism. Assist with setting the restaurant for service, to include but not limited to: main dining room(s) set up folding linen, and stocking glassware and flatware. Team Engagement & Culture Embody Hawksmoor values with a positive, proactive, and professional attitude. Seek out, welcome, and act on feedback from peers and managers. Support other team members during service and contribute to a collaborative team environment.  Show genuine care for both the team and the overall guest experience. Health & Safety Adhere to all allergy awareness, cleanliness, and food safety procedures. Complete all required training and consistently uphold hygiene standards. Follow opening and closing checklists accurately and consistently to ensure an organized host area.
Operational Standards Manage time effectively to support team priorities and daily operational needs. Maintain awareness of current promotions and offerings, confidently communicating their value to guests. Understand the importance of converting demand and proactively work to accommodate guest inquiries whenever possible. Comply with lateness and absence policies. Purpose & DEIB Use inclusive, respectful language and treat everyone with empathy and fairness. Be knowledgeable about Hawksmoor’s charity partners and sustainability goals. Actively follow menu printing procedures, waste reduction and recycling initiatives. Understand the significance of Hawksmoor being a B Corporation. Physical and Mental Demands Mobility: Must be able to move continuously around the dining room, kitchen, and bar areas during the shift. Lifting & Carrying: Occasionally lifts and carries trays, plates, and items weighing up to ~ 25 to 30 lbs. Communication: Ability to clearly and effectively communicate with guests, kitchen staff, and management. Cognitive: Ability to process guest requests, manage multiple tables simultaneously, and prioritize tasks efficiently in a fast-paced environment. Work Environment: While performing the duties of this position, the employee is regularly exposed to moderate to loud noise levels consistent with a high-volume restaurant. The pace is fast and requires multi-tasking under pressure.