Host

0-1 years

Chai Pani is coming to one of D.C.s most vibrant neighborhoods - Union Market - and were building a passionate team to bring it to life!

In India, chai pani is slang for going out for a cup of tea, a snack, or a little something. For us, it means vibrant, joyful, delicious Indian street food paired with heartfelt hospitality a place where people connect, celebrate, and feel taken care of.

Weve been recognized with seven James Beard nominations, and in 2022, Chai Pani Asheville won Outstanding Restaurant. We've been featured in The New York Times, Bon Appetit, Food & Wine, and even landed on Oprahs Favorite Things. But accolades dont matter if the experience we offer doesnt feel warm, genuine, and grounded. Thats where you come in.

Were hiring Hosts to help us build something truly special in D.C.

Position Summary: As the first face guests see and the last goodbye they receive, the Host sets the tone for the entire experience. Youll greet everyone with genuine warmth, manage the flow of service with precision and calm, and create a sense of ease and excitement from the moment guests walk through the door. Its a make or break position. Youll be the compass of our dining room and a key part of our guests first impression.

What we this role offers:

• The chance to work with a James Beard Awardwinning restaurant group and Chef
• Flexibility, camaraderie, and a culture where your voice matters
• Growth, mentorship, and a community that values excellence and care
• A Masterclass in hospitality systems, guest communication and service flow

What you offer:

• A genuine love of hospitality and being of service to others
• Warmth, empathy
• A mind for systems and puzzles
• A clear, friendly and confident communication style
• A growth mindset, and a commitment to upholding a culture of excellence, love and care
• A team-first attitude and a drive to go above and beyond for guests and coworkers alike

Benefits:

• Medical, dental, vision, disability, dependent care FSA, and supplemental life insurance (full-time team members)
• Company paid life insurance (full and part-time team members)
• Tip-share program
• Flexible work schedules
• Paid sick days
• Free shift meals
• Employee discount on merch, Spicewalla products, and all of our other restaurant locations in Asheville, Charlotte & Atlanta
• Cash advance program
• Opportunity to apply to annual staff trip to India after 1 year of employment

Giving back is at the heart of Chai Pani's mission. We make a difference when and where we can - from our partnership with an educational non-profit in Mumbai; to feeding the homeless with dignity in our communities; and within our own walls, offering competitive pay, schedules, and benefits that support work-life harmony. We hope youll join our team and be a difference-maker too.

Compensation: Hourly ($10.00) plus tips

Benefits & Perks: Health Insurance, Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance, Dining Discounts

Customer Service Orientation

Problem Solving Skills

Attention to Detail

Ability to manage stress

Interpersonal Skills

Adaptability

Collaboration

Time Management

Positive Attitude

Conflict Resolution

Cultural Awareness

Ability to work in a fast paced environment

leadership potential

Mentorship Skills

Community Engagement

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