Cafe Chelsea, a celebrated dining destination in the heart of West 23rd Street in New York City, is seeking a dedicated and experienced hospitality professional to join our team as a full-time, salaried Maitre D’ and Manager. If you possess a genuine passion for creating exceptional guest experiences and thrive in a dynamic, high-volume restaurant environment, we encourage you to apply. We are specifically looking for candidates with full-time availability and a minimum of four years of Maitre D’ experience in the vibrant New York City restaurant scene.
About Cafe Chelsea
Located in the iconic Chelsea neighborhood on West 23rd Street in New York, Cafe Chelsea is known for its warm and inviting atmosphere, coupled with a commitment to providing outstanding service and memorable dining experiences. We pride ourselves on creating a welcoming space for our guests, whether they are local regulars or first-time visitors. Our team is passionate about hospitality, and we are looking for a leader to join us in upholding our high standards.
Your Role as Maitre D’/Manager
As Maitre D’/Manager, you will be the face of Cafe Chelsea, playing a pivotal role in ensuring seamless service and exceptional guest satisfaction. This position is ideal for a proactive and detail-oriented individual who excels at managing front-of-house operations and leading a team. You will be responsible for creating a positive first impression for every guest, managing the flow of service, and contributing to the overall success of our restaurant. Your expertise will be crucial in maintaining our reputation as a premier dining destination in West Chelsea, New York.
Key Responsibilities
Your responsibilities will encompass a wide range of front-of-house management duties, all focused on delivering impeccable hospitality. These include, but are not limited to:
- Guest Relations & Hospitality: Warmly greet guests upon arrival and escort them to their tables, ensuring a positive and welcoming atmosphere from the moment they enter Cafe Chelsea on West 23rd Street. Proactively anticipate guest needs and resolve any concerns with grace and efficiency.
- Reservation & Seating Management: Expertly manage reservations using reservation software, optimize seating arrangements to maximize restaurant capacity, and efficiently handle walk-in guests, providing accurate wait times and options.
- Team Leadership & Training: Train, mentor, and supervise door staff and front-of-house team members, ensuring they adhere to service standards and provide exceptional guest experiences. Conduct pre-shift meetings to communicate service goals and menu updates.
- Floor Management During Service: Oversee the dining room during service hours, ensuring smooth operations, efficient table turns, and prompt attention to guest requests. Manage opening and closing duties for the front-of-house.
- Communication & Coordination: Maintain constant communication with servers, kitchen staff, and bartenders to ensure seamless service flow and address any special requests or dietary needs. Keep guests informed about table status and manage waitlists effectively.
- Large Party & Special Event Coordination: Collaborate with management to coordinate reservations for large parties, private dining events, and special occasions, ensuring all details are handled meticulously to create memorable experiences.
- Menu Knowledge & Service Standards: Maintain a comprehensive understanding of our food and beverage menus to answer guest inquiries and guide their dining choices. Uphold and reinforce high service standards among all front-of-house staff.
What We’re Looking For
To be successful in this vital role at our West 23rd Street location, candidates should possess the following qualifications and attributes:
- Proven Experience: Minimum of 4+ years of Maitre D’ experience in a high-volume, upscale restaurant environment, preferably within New York City.
- Hospitality Passion: A genuine passion for providing exceptional hospitality and creating positive guest interactions. A warm and engaging personality that resonates with guests.
- Reservations Software Proficiency: Strong working knowledge of reservation management software systems (e.g., OpenTable, Resy).
- Leadership & Team Management Skills: Demonstrated ability to train, motivate, and lead a team in a fast-paced environment. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Problem-Solving Abilities: Ability to think quickly and resolve guest issues or operational challenges effectively and professionally.
- Flexibility & Availability: Flexible work schedule, including availability to work nights, weekends, and holidays as business demands.
- Physical Stamina: The ability to stand and walk for extended periods and to lift and carry up to 30 lbs. Comfortable with tasks such as kneeling, bending, and navigating stairs.
Benefits of Joining Cafe Chelsea
Cafe Chelsea values its team members and offers a competitive compensation and benefits package, including:
- Competitive Salary: A competitive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.
- Retirement Plan: 401(k) retirement plan to help you plan for your future.
- Paid Time Off (PTO): Paid time off to ensure a healthy work-life balance.
- Comprehensive Insurance: Full medical, dental, and vision insurance package to support your well-being.
Cafe Chelsea and SHG Hospitality are proud to be Equal Opportunity Employers. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all employees. We believe that a diverse team strengthens our restaurant and enhances the experience we provide to our guests at Cafe Chelsea on West 23rd Street in New York, NY.
If you are a highly motivated and experienced hospitality professional seeking a rewarding opportunity as a Maitre D’/Manager at a premier West Chelsea restaurant, we encourage you to apply. Please submit your resume for consideration. We look forward to hearing from you!
