Lead Host

2 years

Kayao is a vibrant Peruvian-Japanese restaurant in Old Town Chicago looking for an expereinced Lead Host to lead our front door team. At Kayao, we blend traditional flavors with modern techniques to create a unique upscale dining experience under the leadership of our Michelin-rated Executive Chef Jose Luis Chavez.

The Lead Host is a key player on our team - managing reservations, maximizing tables and turn times, consistently communicating with Management, Chef Teams, and Front-of-House Teams to ensure we serve all guests in warm, welcoming, and timely manners. The lead host must be well versed in organizing reservations, controlling turn times, walk-in guests, and a dynamic waitlist. Experience with OpenTable (or similar platform) and weekend availability are required. Bi-lingual is preferred, but not required.

Responsibilities:

• Manage reservations
• Gather Guest Information for Future Visits
• Increase Daily Covers and Maximize available seating
• Maintain clean, presentable, and organized Front-of-House
• Excellent Communication
• Show initiative to support top-tier service and guest experience
• Weekend Availability Required

Qualifications:

• Hosting in a Restaurant, 2-years Minimum
• Strong knowledge of Opentable Platform (or similar platform)
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to plan our and execute nightly service of up to 250 guests
• Passion for customer service and creating a warm, welcome for guests
• Highly organized, reliable, and dedicated

We offer: competitive pay, flexible scheduling, growth opportunities

Please submit your Resume and Cover Letter for consideration. This is a great opportunity and we look forward to hearing from you!

Compensation: Hourly ($19.00 - $22.00)

Benefits & Perks: Competitive Wages, Dynamic and Professional Work Environment, Opportunity for Advancement

Reservation Management

Customer Relationship Management

Time Management

Problem Solving

Attention to Detail

Conflict Resolution

Cultural Awareness