First impressions are made in seconds, and that is exactly what the restaurant host or hostess is responsible for. The role is essential in busy restaurants, hotel restaurants and bistros. It combines hospitality with organisation and is an ideal way into restaurant service.
What does a host or hostess do?
- Welcoming guests warmly and showing them to their table
- Managing reservations by phone, email and online booking system
- Planning tables so every station is evenly busy
- Estimating waiting times and looking after walk-in guests
- Taking coats and greeting regulars by name
- Saying goodbye to guests and collecting feedback
Why is this role so important?
A well-run front desk prevents chaos. It stops all guests arriving at once, keeps kitchen and service in rhythm and makes sure no reservation gets lost. At the same time, the host is the face of the restaurant – a warm welcome shapes the whole evening.
Which skills are needed?
- Strong communication and a confident, friendly manner
- Good German for phone calls and guest contact, with English as a plus
- Organisational talent and a good memory for names and faces
- Staying calm when everyone wants a table on a Friday night
- Basic knowledge of reservation software or willingness to learn it
Formal training is not required. Many hosts come from service, retail or reception jobs in other industries.
Working hours and conditions
Hosts mainly work at peak times: evenings and weekends, and in some restaurants at lunchtime too. Many positions are available full- or part-time, and hosts often share in the tips.
Career prospects
The front desk opens many doors: into service as a waiter or chef de rang, into restaurant management, or into hotels at reception or in the reservations department. If you show organisational talent, you will quickly get more responsibility.
Application tips
- Highlight customer contact, languages and organisational tasks from previous jobs.
- Mention experience with reservation systems or POS software.
- Arrive at the interview the way you would welcome guests: neat and friendly.
Front-of-house jobs with AS-Gastro-Consult
AS-Gastro-Consult places hosts, hostesses and service staff with restaurants and hotels throughout Germany. We help you find a position that fits your languages and availability.
See our current job offers or message us on WhatsApp: +49 163 501 95 12.
