Host / Hostess

About Thrive Restaurant Group

Thrive Restaurant Group is a family-owned business that has been operating for more than 50 years. The company is devoted to positively impacting the lives of its guests and the communities where it operates. Thrive fosters a family-like work environment and welcomes individuals who wish to learn about business, leadership, and hospitality within a lively and supportive atmosphere.

At Applebee's, known internally as Legacy Apple, the brand symbolizes neighborhood values and strives to be more than just a dining spot by actively participating in community support. The restaurant has contributed over $5 million in charitable efforts supporting various causes such as school events and pediatric cancer initiatives, embracing the core value of "Be a Good Neighbor."

Position Overview: Host / Hostess

The Host or Hostess plays a key role in making a positive first and last impression on guests. The primary responsibility is to warmly welcome guests upon arrival and departure, assist them to their seats, and regulate guest flow throughout the restaurant with genuine hospitality.

Key Responsibilities

• Welcome guests by opening doors when they arrive and depart, accounting for 40% of duties.
• Accommodate guests’ special needs such as providing boosters, highchairs, or assistance for disabilities, representing 35% of tasks.
• Manage the waitlist efficiently during peak dining hours (10%).
• Support servers by assisting guests when required (5%).
• Maintain cleanliness and order in the work area and perform assigned cleaning tasks (5%).
• Encourage guests to return for future dining experiences (5%).

Requirements and Qualifications

• A genuine desire to care for others, grow professionally, and learn new skills.
• A consistently positive attitude.
• Proficiency in reading, writing, and verbal communication.
• Physical mobility throughout the entire shift.
• Ability to transport and carry items such as highchairs weighing up to 15 pounds repeatedly during the shift.
• Competence in cleaning table surfaces, legs, floor debris, and booth seats across all restaurant areas.

Physical Demands

The role requires physical activity including navigating the restaurant, interacting with guests, moving items up to 5 pounds regularly, occasionally lifting up to 25 pounds, bending, and stooping. Visual acuity is needed to ensure cleanliness and operate touchscreen devices. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for individuals with disabilities.

Additional Information

Thrive Restaurant Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Tennessee locations comply with E-Verify requirements. Compensation is based on tip credit minimum wage plus tips; actual earnings vary according to availability.