Host/Hostess - The Café

Fairmont Hotels & Resorts is a renowned luxury hotel brand with a global presence and a commitment to creating lasting memories for our guests. With over 30,000 colleagues worldwide, we are dedicated to delivering exceptional service, fostering a culture of excellence, and making special happen. Hotel Overview: Located in the heart of downtown Fairmont New Orleans will be an impressive new addition to Fairmont’s luxury portfolio, offering 250 luxury guest rooms, four food & drink venues, a rooftop pool with expansive views of the city, more than 19,000 square feet of function space, and a 10,000 square-foot spa. This property is destined to become an illustrious destination in the Central Business District, nearby the city’s renowned and historic French Quarter. - Warmly greet and welcome guests upon arrival while creating a positive and professional first impression.  - Serve as an ambassador of The Café by Chef Emeril and Fairmont New Orleans by delivering genuine, approachable New Orleans hospitality.  - Manage reservations, seating assignments, waitlists, and guest preferences using the designated reservation system.  - Escort guests to tables and provide menus while communicating relevant information about The Café.  - Maintain knowledge of menu offerings, daily features, beverages, coffee and espresso selections, hours of operation, and restaurant amenities.  - Develop knowledge of Chef Emeril Lagasse's culinary philosophy and the New Orleans influences represented throughout The Café.  - Confidently answer guest questions and provide appropriate information regarding menu items and restaurant offerings.  - Monitor dining room activity and coordinate closely with Servers, Culinary, Management, and other Food & Beverage colleagues to maintain smooth service flow.  - Manage table rotations and seating assignments while considering guest preferences and operational needs.  - Communicate estimated wait times accurately and manage guest expectations during periods of high volume.  - Maintain accurate waitlists and communicate with guests regarding table availability.  - Answer telephone calls promptly and professionally while assisting with reservations, guest inquiries, and operational communications.  - Respond to guest requests, concerns, and special accommodations with warmth, professionalism, and discretion.  - Assist with guest recovery efforts and involve leadership when appropriate.  - Maintain cleanliness and organization of the host stand, entrance, waiting areas, and dining spaces.  - Ensure menus, guest-facing materials, and seating areas are clean and properly presented.  - Assist with VIP guests, special occasions, hotel events, and other elevated guest experiences.  - Maintain familiarity with Fairmont New Orleans amenities, services, outlets, events, and local attractions to assist guests.  - Support the outlet during peak periods and high-volume service while maintaining composure and hospitality standards.  - Assist with opening and closing duties, stocking, cleaning, and other operational responsibilities.  - Maintain a polished and professional appearance consistent with Fairmont New Orleans standards.  - Follow all hotel, restaurant, safety, sanitation, and service policies and procedures.  - Uphold the hospitality and culinary standards associated with Chef Emeril Lagasse and Fairmont New Orleans.  - Perform additional duties as assigned.  - Previous host/hostess, restaurant, café, hotel, hospitality, or guest service experience preferred.  - Luxury hotel or upscale dining experience is an asset.  - Passion for hospitality, food, beverage, and creating exceptional guest experiences.  - Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.  - Strong organizational and multitasking abilities.  - Ability to remain professional, composed, and welcoming in a fast-paced environment.  - Professional appearance and polished demeanor required.  - Strong guest service mindset with the ability to create positive and memorable interactions.  - Basic computer skills and familiarity with reservation or POS systems preferred.  - Ability to learn and communicate detailed menu and outlet information.  - Strong teamwork and communication skills.  - Knowledge of New Orleans hospitality, culture, and local attractions is an asset.  - Ability to work flexible schedules, including mornings, evenings, weekends, holidays, and extended shifts as operationally required.  - Must be legally authorized to work in the United States.  All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.