Maitre D

GUI Steakhouse by Sungchul Shim and the team behind Michelin-starred Kochi and Mari.

GUI is a Michelin-recognized American steakhouse with a distinctly modern perspective. Rooted in Korean heritage and shaped by the energy of New York, the menu reflects a layered approach to flavor, technique, and hospitality. Ranked among the city’s leading steakhouses, GUI delivers a dining experience that is at once polished, expressive, and globally informed—welcoming both New Yorkers and guests from around the world.

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Maitre D to lead the front door and guest experience at GUI. This role is both operational and administrative , serving as the first and last point of contact while orchestrating the flow of service with precision, warmth, and authority.

The ideal candidate embodies refined hospitality, anticipates guest needs intuitively, and upholds Michelin-level standards while maintaining the energy and pace of a high-volume New York steakhouse.

Key Responsibilities

Guest Experience & Service Leadership

• Serve as the primary host and ambassador of the restaurant, ensuring every guest is welcomed with poise, warmth, and confidence
• Manage the reservation book and floor flow with strategic awareness of pacing, turn times, and guest preferences
• Anticipate guest needs, special occasions, and VIP recognition with discretion and personalization
• Maintain a strong presence on the floor, supporting service teams and elevating overall guest experience
• Resolve guest concerns with professionalism and immediacy, ensuring seamless recovery when needed

Reservations & Administrative Oversight

• Oversee and manage all reservations through platforms such as OpenTable and/or SevenRooms
• Maintain detailed guest profiles, notes, and preferences to enhance repeat experiences and build long-term relationships
• Coordinate with management on seating strategies, large party planning, and VIP accommodations
• Assist in reservation reporting, tracking covers, cancellations, and pacing metrics
• Support marketing and operations by ensuring reservation accuracy for special events, collaborations, and seasonal programming

Team Collaboration & Standards

• Work closely with the General Manager and service team to ensure cohesive and elevated service execution
• Guide and support host team members, setting standards for tone, posture, and communication
• Uphold and reinforce company policies, reservation guidelines, and service protocols
• Participate in training and continuous development of front door operations

Qualifications

• Minimum 3–5 years of experience as a Maitre D, Lead Host, or similar role in a high-end, Michelin-recognized, or luxury steakhouse environment
• Strong understanding of New York dining culture, pacing, and guest expectations
• Experience with reservation and CRM systems
• Exceptional communication skills with a polished, confident, and composed demeanor
• Highly organized with the ability to multitask and make real-time decisions under pressure
• A genuine passion for hospitality, with a focus on anticipation, detail, and authentic ity

Preferred Experience

• Background in Michelin-starred or Michelin-recognized restaurants
• Experience in high-volume fine dining or top-tier steakhouses

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience
• Health insurance options (following eligibility period)
• Paid time off and commuter benefits
• Opportunities for growth within a dynamic and expanding restaurant group