Lead Hostess

About the Role

Chotto Matte Toronto is inviting applications for an experienced and composed Lead Hostess to join its Front of House management team. Situated at 161 Bay Street in Toronto, this full-time position offers competitive pay between $21 and $31 per hour plus participation in a gratuity program. The Lead Hostess will be instrumental as the primary contact for guests, tasked with not only welcoming and seating patrons but also steering the host team and coordinating the operational flow in a bustling restaurant setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Guide and assist the host team throughout daily shifts.
• Provide guests with a warm, polished, and professional greeting experience.
• Manage the reservation system, walk-in traffic, waitlists, seating arrangements, and overall dining room flow.
• Collaborate with management and service staff to optimize seating strategies and maximize table turnover smoothly.
• Oversee guest arrivals especially during peak hours such as busy lunches, dinners, weekends, and special occasions.
• Maintain a comprehensive knowledge of reservations, VIP guests, celebrations, special requests, and large group bookings.
• Ensure clear communication between managers, servers, bartenders, and the Sales & Events department.
• Address guest concerns calmly and professionally at the door and escalate issues as needed.
• Train and support new and existing host team members.
• Keep the host station organized, maintaining accurate reservation notes and guest information.
• Uphold host standards including grooming, opening and closing duties, and general service expectations.
• Proactively identify potential operational challenges and coordinate with the management team accordingly.
• Exemplify Chotto Matte's hospitality values with confidence, professionalism, and warmth.

Candidate Profile

• Natural hospitality skills alongside strong leadership qualities to manage a busy entrance effectively.
• Prior experience in high-end, premium, or high-volume restaurant settings, ideally in roles such as lead host, senior host, or maître d'.
• Excellent communication and organizational capabilities.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and resolve guest issues while staying composed during busy services.
• Familiarity with restaurant reservation software and an understanding of table management and pacing.
• Committed to providing outstanding hospitality starting from the moment guests arrive.

Compensation and Benefits

• Hourly wage ranging from $21 to $31 based on experience.
• Participation in a gratuity sharing program.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
• Daily paid staff meals provided.
• Two weeks of paid vacation annually.
• Full-time employment status.
• Growth opportunities within the Chotto Matte organization.

About Chotto Matte

Chotto Matte combines Japanese and Peruvian culinary influences, known as Nikkei cuisine, enlivened by cocktails, music, and art paired with vibrant hospitality. Located within Toronto's Financial District, the restaurant caters to diverse clientele including corporate groups, celebratory events, and destination diners.