Hosts and Hostesses, Restaurant, Lounge, and Coffee Shop

Provide guests with menus.

Assign patrons to tables suitable for their needs and according to rotation so that servers receive an appropriate number of seatings.

Greet guests and seat them at tables or in waiting areas.

Answer telephone calls and respond to inquiries or transfer calls.

Operate cash registers to accept payments for food and beverages.

Speak with patrons to ensure satisfaction with food and service, to respond to complaints, or to make conversation.

Take and prepare to-go orders.

Maintain contact with kitchen staff, management, serving staff, and customers to ensure that dining details are handled properly and customers' concerns are addressed.

Supervise and coordinate activities of dining room staff to ensure that patrons receive prompt and courteous service.

Receive and record patrons' dining reservations.

Inspect dining and serving areas to ensure cleanliness and proper setup.

Hire, train, and supervise food and beverage service staff.

Inform patrons of establishment specialties and features.

Prepare cash receipts after establishments close, and make bank deposits.

Inspect restrooms for cleanliness and availability of supplies and clean restrooms when necessary.

Assist other restaurant workers by serving food and beverages, or by bussing tables.

Direct patrons to coatrooms and waiting areas such as lounges.

Plan parties or other special events and services.

Prepare staff work schedules.

Order or requisition supplies and equipment for tables and serving stations.

Perform marketing and advertising services.

Confer with other staff to help plan establishments' menus.