Restaurant Host/Hostess

About us

Established in 1913 (making it one of the oldest restaurant & bar establishments in San Francisco), the PlumpJack Balboa Cafe continues to be a multi-generational San Francisco institution. Balboa is a classic neighbourhood gathering hub for both locals and visitors, alike. The original bar is a beacon and the interior décor remain relatively untouched, retaining the magic of times gone by.

The menu offers both signature favorites like its famed Balboa Burger, and its Wednesday special, Chicken Paillard, along with seasonal dishes that delight. In recent years, the Balboa Cafe has generated a cult following for their famed Espressotini, which includes a proprietary recipe that has captivated the masses. Purpose of the role: Provides a gracious and approachable experience for our guests while ensuring our service standards are always maintained.

Responsibilities

Extend a courteous, friendly, and professional greeting to guests at arrival, and to thank them at departure. Handle to-go orders over the phone or in person. Responsible for proper reporting and cash handling at end of shift To record and document all House Account tabs according to PlumpJack’s policies. Ensure the Restaurant Manager is aware of all guest comments and complaints.

Provide prompt, efficient, and gracious service, in person or over the telephone, including making restaurant reservations, greeting guests with salutations, seating guests as they arrive, providing menus, and responding to all requests for information regarding the restaurant. Ensure proper rotation of service stations when seating guests.

Ensure the cleanliness and good condition of all menus, check presenters and wine lists used during each shift. Properly record covers, staffing, service flow and guest comments in logbook, for each shift. Assist with the selling and maintenance of all Balboa merchandise (i.e., hats, sweatshirts, etc.) Represent and market the Restaurant in a positive and professional manner as requested and continually promote PlumpJack internally and externally by attending special events when requested and building relationships both on and off property.

Promote and comply with all policies and procedures of PlumpJack. Immediately report all suspicious occurrences and hazardous conditions and avoid injury to self and others. Maintain the cleanliness and safety of work areas and equipment. Attend all mandatory meetings as directed. Perform other tasks, including cross-training, as directed.

Adhere to the attendance and punctuality policy as outlined in the PlumpJack Employee Handbook. To report to work as scheduled and be prepared to start work in business casual attire. Minimum Requirements: Previous restaurant experience preferred. Must have current Food Handler and Responsible Beverage Service Certificate that reviews all California liquor laws.

Basic knowledge of foods, service standards and procedures. Detail oriented, organized, and efficient. Diplomatic and calm with strong verbal communication skills. Courteous, friendly, and professional manner. Good team player. Customer service focus. Able to work productively with little supervision. Trustworthy and reliable.

Working Conditions: Constantly moving between in and outdoor environment throughout shift. Indoors, works in clean, adequately lighted restaurant. Exposed to weather conditions while seating guests outdoors. Work areas may be noisy and crowded. Makes frequent trips to kitchen where air may be moist, warm, and odorous from cooking foods.

Kitchen floors are uneven and may be slippery from moisture and grease . Physical Demands: Stands/walks throughout shift. Moderate to frequent use of stairs, daily. Heavy use of phones, daily. Must be able to work well under pressure. Must be able to lift and carry up to 20 lbs .