Host Hostess Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA (NOW HIRING)

Host / Hostess Position at Maréla

Maréla is an upcoming coastal European–inspired restaurant rooted in the traditions of Southern European wine and seafood cuisine. The concept celebrates the simplicity and elegance of coastal cooking—where exceptional ingredients, thoughtful technique, and seasonality take center stage.

Drawing inspiration from the culinary cultures of the Mediterranean and Southern Europe, Maréla showcases a menu centered on pristine seafood, vibrant produce, and refined yet approachable preparations designed to be shared around the table. The experience is deeply connected to food and wine, reflecting the spirit of gathering, discovery, and elevated hospitality that defines great coastal dining.

The Host / Hostess serves as the first and final impression of Maréla, embodying the warmth, sophistication, and attentiveness that define our brand. This role is responsible for welcoming guests, managing reservations and flow, and ensuring a seamless, gracious arrival and departure experience that reflects the essence of luxury coastal hospitality.

Key Responsibilities

Guest Experience & Hospitality

• Warmly welcome each guest with genuine hospitality, creating an immediate sense of arrival and belonging
• Escort guests to their tables with poise, providing an introduction to the Maréla experience
• Maintain awareness of guest needs throughout service and collaborate with the service team to ensure an elevated experience
• Offer thoughtful recommendations regarding menu highlights, wine experiences, and local attractions
• Acknowledge and thank each guest upon departure, extending a sincere invitation to return

Reservations & Service Flow

• Manage reservations, waitlists, and seating arrangements to optimize flow and enhance the guest experience
• Answer phones professionally and handle reservation inquiries, including large party coordination
• Maintain clear communication with leadership and service teams regarding pacing, table readiness, and guest preferences
• Ensure seamless transitions between seatings while preserving a calm and refined atmosphere

Operational Excellence

• Prepare the host stand and dining room for service, ensuring cleanliness, organization, and presentation standards are met
• Maintain cleanliness of entry, lobby, and service areas throughout the shift
• Support overall restaurant operations and assist leadership in maintaining service standards
• Possess working knowledge of POS and reservation systems
• Uphold all safety and cleanliness standards, ensuring a hazard-free environment

Team Collaboration

• Partner with front-of-house and back-of-house teams to ensure alignment and consistency in service delivery
• Support leadership in maintaining a culture of professionalism, respect, and excellence
• Step in to assist in broader restaurant operations as needed

Qualifications & Skills

• Prior experience in a host/hostess or guest-facing hospitality role preferred
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills with a polished, professional presence
• Ability to multitask and remain composed in a fast-paced, high-touch environment
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to delivering a luxury guest experience
• Knowledge of food, wine, and local attractions preferred
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods and lift up to 10 lbs as needed
• Flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays
• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Must meet legal age requirements for handling alcohol-related service environments

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, and move throughout the shift
• Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 10 lbs. without assistance

This position requires the ability to perform essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation and without posing a direct threat to the health or safety of self or others. Responsibilities may evolve based on business needs, and team members may be asked to support additional duties as part of a collaborative hospitality environment.