About Company
At Santa Maria Pizzeria, we’re passionate about bringing the true taste of Naples to London. Since opening our first restaurant in Ealing, West London, we’ve grown a loyal following and expanded our family to include several vibrant locations across the city, including our beloved spot in Acton. Our philosophy is simple: use the highest quality, authentic Neapolitan ingredients, fire up traditional wood-fired ovens, and serve delicious pizzas with a smile in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. We pride ourselves on creating a genuine Italian dining experience, where every guest feels like part of the family. Our commitment to authenticity extends beyond our food; it’s woven into the fabric of our team culture. We believe in nurturing talent, fostering a supportive environment, and celebrating the joy of sharing great food and company. Joining Santa Maria Pizzeria means becoming part of a team that values tradition, quality, and community. We’re more than just a restaurant; we’re a place where memories are made, friendships are forged, and the aroma of freshly baked pizza fills the air. If you’re looking for a dynamic and rewarding environment where your passion for hospitality can truly shine, you’ve found your home with Santa Maria Pizzeria.
Job Description
Are you an enthusiastic and personable individual with a flair for hospitality? Santa Maria Pizzeria in Acton is seeking a dedicated Restaurant Host with evening availability to be the welcoming face of our bustling establishment. As our Host, you are the first impression our guests receive and the last interaction they have, playing a pivotal role in setting the tone for their entire dining experience. This isn’t just about seating tables; it’s about creating an inviting atmosphere, managing the flow of our restaurant with grace and efficiency, and ensuring every guest feels valued and excited to be with us. Your exceptional communication skills, keen eye for detail, and ability to remain calm and composed during peak hours will be key to your success. You’ll be responsible for greeting guests warmly, managing reservations and waitlists accurately, guiding diners to their tables, and providing initial information about our menu and daily specials. This role requires someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, can multitask effectively, and genuinely enjoys interacting with people from all walks of life. If you’re passionate about delivering outstanding customer service, have a positive attitude, and are looking for a role where you can make a tangible difference in a renowned pizzeria, we encourage you to apply. We offer a supportive team environment, opportunities for growth, and the chance to contribute to a beloved London dining institution. Your evening availability is crucial, as our busiest hours are when our guests most need your welcoming presence.
Key Responsibilities
- Warmly greet all guests upon arrival and bid them farewell upon departure.
- Manage the restaurant's seating chart and reservation system efficiently.
- Accurately quote wait times and manage guest expectations.
- Escort guests to their tables, ensuring a clean and properly set dining area.
- Answer phone calls, address inquiries, and take reservations.
- Maintain a clean and organised host stand and entrance area.
- Assist in managing the flow of the dining room, coordinating with servers and kitchen staff.
- Provide guests with menus and introduce them to the Santa Maria Pizzeria experience.
- Handle guest complaints or concerns with professionalism and escalate when necessary.
- Assist with light cleaning duties and table resetting as needed.
Required Skills
- Proven excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
- A genuine passion for customer service and creating positive guest experiences.
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, high-volume restaurant environment.
- Strong organisational and multitasking abilities.
- Proficient in managing reservations and waitlists (basic computer literacy).
- Professional appearance and a friendly, approachable demeanor.
- Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required.
- Ability to stand for extended periods.
Preferred Qualifications
- Previous experience as a host/hostess or in a similar front-of-house role in a restaurant.
- Familiarity with restaurant reservation systems (e.g., OpenTable, Resy, or similar).
- Basic knowledge of food and beverage service.
- A positive attitude and a proactive approach to problem-solving.
- First Aid and Food Hygiene certifications are a plus.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive hourly wage.
- Delicious complimentary staff meals during shifts.
- Generous staff discounts across all Santa Maria Pizzeria locations.
- Opportunities for professional development and career progression within a growing company.
- A vibrant, supportive, and fun team environment.
- Comprehensive training provided.
- Contribution to a well-respected and authentic brand.
How to Apply
Ready to bring your welcoming smile and exceptional service to Santa Maria Pizzeria? We invite you to become a part of our family! Please click on the application link below to submit your application directly through our careers portal. We look forward to reviewing your details and potentially welcoming you to our team.