Host

JOB TITLE: Host / Hostess (Front Door + Guest Experience)

Location: Bar Kamon (San Diego, CA)
Job Type: Part-Time (potential for Full-Time based on availability and performance)
Typical Shift Length: 6 hours

ABOUT BAR KAMON

Bar Kamon is a Japanese-inspired cocktail bar rooted in craft, precision, and genuine hospitality. Our guest experience is built on omotenashi — a high standard of care that anticipates needs, respects guests, and creates a calm and welcoming atmosphere even during busy service.

The Host role is the first impression of Bar Kamon and one of the most important positions in our operation.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Host is responsible for managing reservations, greeting and seating guests, maintaining flow and pacing throughout service, and supporting front-of-house communication to ensure an exceptional guest experience.

This is a demanding, high-visibility role — ideal for someone who thrives under pressure, communicates confidently, and truly enjoys taking care of people.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIESGuest Experience / Omotenashi

• Welcome every guest with professionalism, warmth, and confidence
• Create a calm and polished first impression, even during busy rush periods
• Understand and communicate the Bar Kamon vibe: intimate, elevated, and attentive
• Assist guests with reservation questions, wait times, seating options, and general service expectations
• Support special occasions (birthdays, anniversaries) with attention to detail and discretion

Reservations + Seating Flow

• Manage reservations and table pacing throughout the shift
• Coordinate seating in a way that supports bartender/server pacing, timing, and hospitality standards
• Maintain accurate wait lists and quoted wait times
• Communicate clearly with the Bar Team regarding:
• table status updates
• late arrivals / no-shows
• walk-in volume
• large party pacing

OpenTable + Admin Duties

• Use reservation software to:
• confirm bookings
• manage walk-ins
• adjust seating notes
• close out reservations accurately
• Answer phone calls and emails professionally and promptly
• Track VIP notes and guest preferences when applicable

Team Support

• Collaborate with bartenders, servers, and management as one unified team
• Assist with light FOH support tasks when needed (menus, water, clearing small items, resetting host area)

QUALIFICATIONS Required

• Strong communication skills (in-person and phone)
• Calm under pressure, emotionally mature, and solution-oriented
• Ability to stay organized and professional in a fast-paced environment
• Reliability, punctuality, and consistent availability
• Comfortable standing and moving for extended periods (6-hour shifts)

Preferred / Plus

• OpenTable experience
• High-end hospitality, cocktail bar, fine dining, or omakase-adjacent experience
• Japanese language ability (conversational or fluent) is a major plus but not required
• Familiarity with Japanese hospitality values / etiquette (omotenashi mindset)

THIS ROLE IS NOT FOR EVERYONE

At Bar Kamon, the host is not simply “a greeter.” The host is responsible for pacing, guest expectations, and protecting the guest experience — even when the room is full and the pressure is high.

If you thrive in hospitality and feel pride in taking care of people, you will love this role.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Typical shifts are 6 hours
• Nights, weekends, and holidays may be required
• Must be able to remain composed and professional in a busy environment
• Must be able to stand/walk for extended periods and lift up to 25 lbs occasionally

COMPENSATION

• Hourly pay (DOE) + potential tip share (if applicable based on current structure)
• Growth opportunities for strong performers

Pay: From $17.25 per hour

Work Location: In person