Hostess

Banyan Group is one of the world’s leading independent, multi-branded hospitality groups centered on the purpose-driven mission of stewardship and wellbeing while offering exceptional, design-led experiences.
The Group’s diversified portfolio of hotels, resorts, spas, galleries, golf and residences features an ecosystem of 10 global brands, including the award-winning Banyan Tree, Angsana, Cassia, Dhawa and Laguna, and the highly anticipated new brands of Homm, Garrya, Folio, and two new Banyan Tree brand extensions - Escape and Veya.
Established in 2008, with the goal of advancing people development and management excellence, Banyan Tree Management Academy has nurtured over 10,000 associates across 23 countries. The Group is recognised for its commitment to environmental protection and community development through its Banyan Tree Global Foundation. Operating over 70 hotels in 17 countries, it has over 50 new properties in the pipeline.

Banyan Tree Dubai is a lively, island escape where stylish stays, incredible dining, warm hospitality, and recreation create lasting memories. Fronted by 500m of a pristine, private beach with uninterrupted views of the Arabian Gulf and backed by the iconic Ain Dubai. With the ambience of a sleek, relaxed, luxe island getaway, Banyan Tree Dubai boasts 3 chilled outdoor pools, fully-serviced beach, award-winning Banyan Tree Spa, a fitness center and 7 dining options.

Summary

A Specialty Hostess is responsible for providing exceptional guest service by managing the front-of-house operations in a restaurant, ensuring guests have a welcoming and positive experience from the moment they arrive. This position focuses on a specific area of the dining experience, such as a particular type of cuisine, or a unique dining concept. The Specialty Hostess is responsible for greeting and seating guests, managing reservations, handling guest inquiries, and creating a pleasant atmosphere, all while maintaining the high standards and ambiance of the specialty restaurant.

Responsibilities

• Greet guests warmly and professionally as they arrive, making them feel welcomed and valued.
• Manage guest reservations, ensuring that all seating arrangements align with the restaurant’s flow and capacity.
• Escort guests to their assigned tables, ensuring they are seated promptly and comfortably.
• Address any special requests from guests, such as seating preferences or accessibility needs, and accommodate them to the best of your ability.
• Coordinate reservations using the restaurant’s reservation system, ensuring accuracy in the number of guests, dining times, and any special requests.
• Manage waitlists effectively during peak hours, ensuring that guests are informed about wait times and keeping them updated if delays occur.
• Ensure that every guest receives top-tier service by addressing any concerns or issues quickly and efficiently.
• Proactively check with guests to confirm they are satisfied with their seating and dining experience.
• Assist in any special celebrations, such as birthdays, anniversaries, or other special occasions, by offering appropriate greetings or services.
• Stay informed about the restaurant’s menu, including special dishes, daily specials, and any unique offerings, to provide guests with accurate information and recommendations.
• Work closely with the service team to relay customer feedback and ensure the service meets the restaurant's standards.
• Maintain the flow of seating arrangements, balancing the restaurant’s dining capacity and ensuring that the guests are seated efficiently without compromising service quality.
• Monitor the dining area to ensure tables are cleared and reset promptly for new guests.
• Communicate effectively with the kitchen, bar, and service team to ensure smooth operations and seating arrangements are carried out as planned.
• Keep the front entrance and lobby area clean, organized, and inviting.
• Ensure that any waiting areas are comfortable, with appropriate seating and the availability of water or other refreshments, if applicable.
• Perform any other duties or responsibilities as assigned by management to support the effective operation of the department and the broader goals of the property.

Experience

• Previous experience in a restaurant or hospitality role is preferred, especially in a fine-dining or specialty restaurant environment.
• Excellent customer service and communication skills, with the ability to interact with guests in a friendly and professional manner.
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities, with the ability to manage reservations and handle guest inquiries efficiently.
• Basic knowledge of the restaurant’s menu and offerings, with the ability to assist guests with menu questions.
• Ability to remain calm under pressure during busy periods, maintaining a welcoming atmosphere.
• Professional appearance and demeanour, in line with the restaurant’s standards.
• Proficiency in reservation software or willingness to learn.

This role may require working evenings, weekends, and holidays, depending on the establishment’s hours of operation.

Why Join Us:

We are dedicated to fostering your growth and success every step of the way. We understand the importance of providing you with the support, training, and leadership necessary to excel in your role. That's why we offer comprehensive training and development programs tailored to sharpen your skills and elevate your expertise in the luxury hospitality sector. Your journey with us is not just about achieving your goals but also about continuously refining your capabilities and making meaningful contributions to our shared success