About Company
Zippy’s Restaurants is an iconic, local-favorite institution in Hawaii, deeply woven into the fabric of island life since 1966. Renowned for its unique blend of local comfort food and fast-casual dining experience, Zippy’s has grown to over 20 locations across O‘ahu, Maui, and Hawai‘i Island. We pride ourselves on serving generations of families with aloha, offering everything from our famous chili and fried chicken to local plate lunches and freshly baked goods from Napoleon’s Bakery. More than just a restaurant, Zippy’s is a community hub where tradition meets convenience, committed to providing exceptional service and a warm, welcoming atmosphere to every guest. Join our ʻohana and be a part of a legacy that nourishes both body and spirit, embodying the true spirit of Hawaiian hospitality.
Job Description
Are you a naturally warm, engaging individual with a passion for creating memorable first impressions? Zippy’s Restaurants in Kapolei is seeking an enthusiastic and professional Restaurant Host – Guest Relations to be the welcoming face of our establishment. This isn’t just about seating guests; it’s about setting the stage for an outstanding dining experience from the moment they step through our doors. As our Guest Relations Host, you will be the initial point of contact, responsible for greeting every guest with genuine aloha, managing reservations and walk-ins efficiently, and ensuring our waiting areas are comfortable and inviting. You’ll skillfully navigate busy periods, maintain accurate waitlists, and communicate effectively with our kitchen and service teams to optimize table turns and guest satisfaction. Your keen eye for detail, proactive communication, and ability to anticipate needs will ensure a seamless flow and contribute significantly to our reputation for exceptional hospitality. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment and love making people feel special, we invite you to bring your vibrant personality to our team and help us continue our tradition of aloha service. This role is pivotal in upholding Zippy’s commitment to delivering a truly authentic Hawaiian dining experience to both our cherished regulars and new visitors alike. You will embody the spirit of generosity and hospitality that Zippy’s is known for, ensuring every guest feels like family and leaves with a smile, eager to return.
Key Responsibilities
- Warmly greet and welcome all guests with a genuine smile and aloha spirit upon their arrival.
- Accurately manage the restaurant's seating chart, reservations, and walk-in waitlist to ensure efficient table turnover and minimize guest waiting times.
- Escort guests to their tables, present menus, and provide any initial information about daily specials or promotions.
- Answer incoming phone calls professionally, providing information about the restaurant, taking reservations, and handling takeout inquiries.
- Maintain the cleanliness and organization of the host stand, entrance area, and waiting lounge.
- Assist guests with special requests, accommodate seating preferences, and address any immediate concerns with grace and efficiency.
- Communicate effectively with servers, kitchen staff, and management regarding table status, guest flow, and any potential issues.
- Assist with light cleaning duties during slower periods, such as wiping down menus or tidying the lobby.
- Handle guest complaints or difficult situations with empathy and escalate to management when necessary.
- Collaborate with the entire team to ensure a cohesive and positive dining experience for every guest.
Required Skills
- Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and non-verbal.
- A naturally friendly, outgoing, and professional demeanor.
- Ability to multitask and remain calm and efficient in a fast-paced, high-volume environment.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Basic computer proficiency for reservation systems and point-of-sale (POS) software.
- Ability to stand for extended periods and perform light lifting.
- Must be available to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required by the restaurant's operating hours.
Preferred Qualifications
- Previous experience (6+ months) in a host, greeter, or customer service role, preferably within the hospitality or restaurant industry.
- Familiarity with reservation software (e.g., OpenTable, Resy).
- Knowledge of local attractions and the Makakilo/Kapolei area.
- A passion for food, hospitality, and creating positive guest experiences.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive hourly wage with opportunities for growth.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance for eligible full-time employees.
- Paid time off and holiday pay.
- Generous employee discounts on Zippy's delicious food.
- Opportunities for career advancement within a well-established Hawaiian company.
- Positive and supportive work environment fostering teamwork and aloha.
- Ongoing training and development programs.
- 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
How to Apply
Ready to be the welcoming face of Zippy’s Restaurants and share your aloha with our guests? We encourage all qualified candidates to apply directly through our official careers portal. Please click on the application link below to submit your resume and complete our online application form. We look forward to reviewing your application and potentially welcoming you to our ʻohana!