Lead Host

Hospitality is not just what you do — it’s who you are.

We are seeking a dynamic, guest-driven hospitality professional who believes the front door is the heart of the restaurant. Someone who remembers names, anticipates arrivals, keeps the energy flowing, and takes genuine pride in making every guest feel as though they are being welcomed into their own home.

If you are energized by connection, thrive on creating unforgettable first impressions, and find joy in turning a full book into a seamless experience, we invite you to share your story with us.

Overview

il Buco Restaurant Group is seeking an experienced and hospitality-driven Lead Host for its three-star Restaurant il Buco Alimentari & Vineria. This role goes beyond managing reservations -it is about owning the guest experience from the very first interaction.

The ideal candidate has a natural presence at the door. You are attentive, poised, and intuitive. You recognize returning guests, remember their names, and take initiative - whether that means calling to let a guest know a table has opened or ensuring the room feels vibrant and welcoming at all times.

We are looking for a unique personality -someone who treats the restaurant as if it were their own home, who thrives in creating momentum at the entrance, and who understands that exceptional hospitality lives in the smallest details.

You will work closely with leadership and the host team to maintain seamless flow, elevate service standards, and ensure every guest leaves with a desire to return.

Please note that proven experience as a successful Lead Host at a high-end, fast-paced restaurant is required. RESUME IS REQUIRED

What You Will Own Guest Relations & Experience

• Serve as the primary ambassador of the restaurant, creating a warm, confident, and memorable first impression.
• Build genuine relationships with guests - recognizing returning guests, remembering names, and personalizing each interaction.
• Proactively connect with guests when tables become available to enhance their experience and maintain engagement.
• Address guest concerns with grace and urgency, partnering with management to ensure full resolution.
• Maintain fluency in waitlist communication, reservation policies, and voicemails with clarity and warmth.

Reservation & Table Management

• Master and manage the Resy booking platform with precision.
• Strategically oversee table flow to ensure balanced pacing between the dining room and kitchen.
• Monitor service timing and collaborate with the kitchen and management to maintain seamless flow.
• Possess full knowledge of table numbers, positions, building hours, and all active dining spaces.

Front-of-House Leadership

• Lead by example, training and mentoring hosts to uphold elevated hospitality standards.
• Ensure all hosts adhere to service guidelines and embody the restaurant’s culture.
• Arrive each day prepared, polished, positive, and ready to set the tone for service.
• Execute payment and gift certificate transactions with professionalism and accuracy.

Hospitality Excellence

• Maintain comprehensive knowledge of menu offerings, preparation methods, and beverage programs.
• Develop familiarity with nearby landmarks, transportation options, and other il Buco properties to assist guests thoughtfully.
• Uphold service standards as outlined in the Employee Handbook.
• Treat all spaces with respect and contribute to cleanliness and organization at all times.
• Represent il Buco Alimentari & Vineria graciously — both in-house and within the community.

Who You Are

• Energetic, poised, and naturally welcoming.
• Guest-obsessed and relationship-driven.
• Calm and strategic under pressure.
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills.
• Organically passionate about guest experience.

Requirements

• Minimum 5 years of experience in a high-volume, fine-dining environment, with a strong understanding of elevated service standards.
• Weekend and holiday availability -hospitality lives when our guests are dining.
• Proficiency in Resy or a comparable reservation platform, with confidence managing high-volume books.
• Exceptional communication skills and the ability to think quickly, solve problems gracefully, and remain composed under pressure.
• A naturally warm, polished, and professional presence -someone who can be both refined and genuinely welcoming at all times.
• A team-minded leader who enjoys mentoring others and setting the tone for service at the door.
• Must be able to speak, read, and understand English to communicate effectively with guests and team members and to manage reservations and service materials.

Application Requirements:

• Resume required
• Please include two professional references

Physical Demands

• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs occasionally for events
• Standing for 4 to 8 hours per shift with occasional bending and reaching.
• Ability to work in a Restaurant environment with varying temperatures.

Want to learn more about us? Check out our website: or social media @ilbuco_av @ilbuconyc @ilbucovita @bottega_ilbuco

il Buco Alimentari & Vineria is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer