Restaurant Host
El Patron Orlando
Posted May 28, 2026
Job Description
Company Overview
El Patron isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a place where people come together. Our mission is to enrich the lives of our customers, our employees, and our community by sharing authentic Mexican flavors, friendly service, and a family atmosphere. We know our team members are the heart of what we do, and we work hard to create an environment where you can grow, feel appreciated, and take pride in every plate you serve.
Position Summary
As the Host at El Patron Orlando, you are the first point of contact and the "Ambassador of First Impressions" for our guests. Your role is to set the tone for the entire dining experience by providing a warm, genuine welcome and ensuring every guest feels like a VIP from the moment they walk through our doors.
Reporting to the Front of House Manager, you will manage the flow of the dining room with poise and efficiency. You aren't just seating people at tables; you are orchestrating the energy of the restaurant, managing wait times with a smile, and ensuring a seamless transition from the front door to the dining table.
Key Responsibilities
Warm Welcomes: Greet every guest immediately upon entry with a genuine smile and a professional, "Welcome to El Patron!"
Seating Coordination: Manage the waitlist and seating chart efficiently to ensure a balanced flow for the servers and a minimal wait for guests.
Reservation Management: Take and confirm reservations via phone or online booking systems, ensuring all special requests (birthdays, anniversaries, etc.) are noted.
Entryway Maintenance: Keep the host stand and lobby area clean, organized, and free of clutter to maintain a high-standard first impression.
Accurate Quoting: Provide guests with realistic wait-time estimates and update them regularly if there are any changes.
Menu Presentation: Lead guests to their tables, present menus, and introduce their server to kick off the dining experience seamlessly.
Sanitization: Assist in wiping down menus and cleaning the front-door glass/high-touch surfaces throughout the shift.
Closing the Loop: Thank guests as they depart, inviting them to return and gathering any quick feedback on their experience.
Required Qualifications
Experience: Previous experience in a customer-facing role (restaurant, retail, or hospitality) is preferred, but a high level of "hospitality DNA" and a willing-to-learn attitude are required.
Communication Skills: Must have excellent verbal communication skills and a professional, welcoming phone manner.
Organizational Prowess: Ability to remain calm and organized under pressure, especially during high-volume peak hours.
Technical Aptitude: Ability to quickly learn and operate a restaurant seating management system (e.g., OpenTable, Resy) and the POS system.
Physical Requirements: Ability to stand and walk for the duration of a shift (up to 8 hours) and work in a fast-paced environment.
Schedule Flexibility: Must be available to work a part-time schedule that includes nights, weekends, and holidays.
Professionalism: Maintain a neat, professional appearance and adhere to the El Patron dress code as the "first face" guests see.
Age Requirement: Must meet the minimum age requirement to work in a restaurant environment in the state of Florida.