Lead Host

About the Restaurant

Catalina Kitchen + Bar is the fourth concept from the Ditka's Restaurant Group who has been operating restaurants in Chicago and Pittsburgh since 1997. Catalina Kitchen + Bar is an elevated neighborhood restaurant featuring modern American cuisine and professional service in a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. Our scratch kitchen will feature a beautiful raw bar, house‑made pasta, fresh fish, and meat shipped directly from our Chicago butcher.

We offer an extensive wine list, local craft beer, and a unique cocktail program.

We are seeking a Lead Host to join our team and provide exceptional leadership at the front desk. The Lead Host is responsible for creating an outstanding first and last impression for every Guest, overseeing the host team, and ensuring smooth and efficient seating and service flow. Working closely with our management team, this role provides guidance and support to hosts, manages reservations and wait lists, and maintains a professional and welcoming atmosphere at all times.

The ideal candidate will have experience handling a reservation system during high‑volume shifts, along with strong communication skills, leadership ability, and a genuine passion for guest service while modeling our company’s standards of professionalism, cleanliness, and hospitality.

Key Performance Elements/Essential Functions

Manages front desk operations in alignment with the General Manager’s direction, ensuring smooth and efficient execution of daily responsibilities. Maintains a thorough understanding of all company policies, procedures, and operating standards while clearly communicating these to all personnel.

Trains, coaches, and counsels host team members while facilitating their growth and professional development. Encourages a positive, respectful work environment free of harassment and misconduct.

Creates a welcoming environment by opening doors for Guests upon arrival and departure, warmly greeting and seating them, and accommodating special needs such as accessibility seating, boosters, and high chairs. Manages Guest expectations during busy times, provides accurate wait estimates, and ensures every Guest departs feeling appreciated and invited to return. Handles incoming calls courteously and efficiently in accordance with established guidelines.

Monitors and maintains the cleanliness and orderliness of all restaurant areas, including restrooms, entryways, and exterior spaces. Assists with the ongoing upkeep of the Greeter area, ensuring menus, Point of Sale merchandise, promotional materials, and other guest‑facing items are well maintained and presentable. Completes assigned weekly cleaning projects and reports any deficiencies to management.

Strives for flawless recovery when addressing Guest complaints and alerts management immediately to any issues. Provides support to the dining room as needed by running food, bussing tables, rolling silverware, or assisting with service flow. Maintains strong working knowledge of restaurant operations including hours of operation, menu offerings, payment policies, and take‑out programs.

Upholds safety and security standards at all times, maintaining a professional image of the restaurant through personal appearance, uniforms, and overall facility presentation. Completes all other duties as assigned by management.

Lives and demonstrates the company’s Core Values and Disciplines at all times. Possesses strong leadership and motivational skills that inspire others to perform at their best.

Displays excellent interpersonal, listening, and communication skills. Builds positive connections with Guests and team members through friendliness, attentiveness, and a naturally approachable demeanor.

Handles challenges with composure, applying effective problem resolution and guest recovery skills to ensure a positive outcome…