About Company
Comal is a vibrant, award-winning restaurant located in the heart of Downtown Berkeley, California. Since opening our doors, we’ve become a beloved culinary destination, celebrated for our modern Mexican cuisine, inventive cocktails, and lively atmosphere. Our menu, deeply inspired by the flavors and traditions of Oaxaca, showcases seasonal ingredients and thoughtfully crafted dishes. We pride ourselves on creating a warm, inviting space where guests can enjoy exceptional food, an extensive selection of mezcal and tequila, and outstanding hospitality. At Comal, we believe that great dining experiences are built on a foundation of passion, quality, and a dedicated team committed to service excellence. We foster a dynamic and supportive work environment where every team member is valued and encouraged to grow.
Job Description
Comal, a celebrated restaurant nestled in the heart of Downtown Berkeley, is actively seeking enthusiastic and dedicated On-site Waitstaff to join our vibrant team. Since our inception, Comal has earned a reputation for its modern Mexican cuisine, innovative cocktail program, and lively, welcoming atmosphere. We are a cornerstone of the Berkeley dining scene, consistently delivering memorable experiences to our guests through exceptional food, drink, and unparalleled hospitality. As a key member of our front-of-house team, you will be the direct embodiment of Comal’s commitment to excellence, ensuring every guest feels welcomed, valued, and utterly delighted from their first greeting to their fond farewell.
This role transcends traditional serving; it’s an immersive opportunity within a dynamic culinary environment where passion for hospitality isn’t just a goal, but a lived experience. You will serve as the ambassador of Comal, adeptly guiding guests through our thoughtfully curated menu, recommending dishes and drinks that perfectly align with their preferences, and anticipating their needs with a proactive, intuitive, and genuinely friendly approach. Our menu boasts a seasonal rotation of dishes, drawing profound inspiration from the vibrant flavors of Oaxaca, complemented by an extensive selection of artisanal mezcal and tequila, inventive craft cocktails, and a discerningly chosen wine list. We strongly advocate for continuous learning, providing our staff with resources and training to deepen their knowledge of our unique offerings, thereby empowering you to confidently educate and engage with our diverse and sophisticated clientele.
We are specifically seeking individuals who not only possess the essential serving proficiencies but also exude a genuine warmth, a natural charm, and an eagerness to foster and contribute to a positive, collaborative team culture. At Comal, we cultivate an environment of mutual respect, strong collaboration, and steadfast support among all team members. You will have the privilege of working alongside acclaimed chefs, masterful bartenders, and a team of dedicated service professionals, all united by a shared commitment to delivering excellence. If you are deeply passionate about the culinary arts, beverage culture, and providing outstanding customer service in a bustling, high-energy setting, and are keen to grow your career within a respected Berkeley institution, Comal offers an unparalleled platform. Join us and play a pivotal role in crafting unforgettable dining experiences for our cherished community and beyond, making every visit a special occasion.
Key Responsibilities
- Warmly greet and seat guests, presenting menus and daily specials with enthusiasm.
- Accurately take food and beverage orders, providing informed recommendations and answering questions regarding menu items, ingredients, and preparation methods.
- Serve food and beverages promptly and professionally, ensuring proper presentation and temperature.
- Monitor dining tables for guest needs, promptly clearing dishes and refilling drinks as necessary.
- Process payments accurately using our POS system and handle cash and credit card transactions.
- Maintain a clean and organized dining area, including table setup and condiment replenishment.
- Collaborate effectively with kitchen staff, bartenders, and other front-of-house team members to ensure seamless service.
- Adhere to all food safety and sanitation guidelines.
- Handle guest inquiries and resolve any service issues with professionalism and a positive attitude.
Required Skills
- Minimum 6 months of experience in a fast-paced restaurant or hospitality environment.
- Exceptional customer service and interpersonal communication skills.
- Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented, high-volume setting.
- Strong attention to detail and ability to multitask efficiently.
- Knowledge of food safety and hygiene regulations.
- Basic math skills for handling transactions and splitting bills.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with POS systems (e.g., Toast).
- Familiarity with Mexican cuisine, mezcal, tequila, and craft cocktails.
- Prior experience in fine dining or a similar upscale casual environment.
- Fluency in Spanish is a plus.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive hourly wage plus excellent tips.
- Opportunity for career growth and professional development within a respected restaurant group.
- Delicious employee meals during shifts.
- Dynamic and supportive work environment.
- Generous employee discounts.
- Contribution to a health and wellness program (for full-time employees).
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to click on the application link below to submit their resume and cover letter. We look forward to reviewing your application and potentially welcoming you to the Comal team!