Lead Host

LEAD HOST (FOH)
Location: Woodland Hills, CA
Reports to: General Manager & FOH Management Team

ABOUT US

Casaléna is the premier dining and event destination in the West Valley, offering a coastal Mediterranean menu inspired by seasonal, top-quality ingredients. Our restaurant blends elevated cuisine with warm, attentive hospitality, creating a refined yet welcoming guest experience.

As part of the Avondale Hospitality group, our Front of House team sets the tone for every guest interaction. The host team plays a critical role in shaping first impressions, managing flow, and ensuring each guest feels genuinely welcomed and cared for from arrival to departure.

THE ROLE

Casaléna is seeking a confident and service-driven Lead Host to support and guide our host team. This role is responsible for overseeing daily host stand operations, managing reservations and guest flow, and ensuring a seamless and elevated arrival experience.

The ideal candidate brings strong communication skills, leadership presence, and the ability to stay composed in a high-volume, fine-dining environment. You will work closely with management to maintain service standards, support the host team, and ensure every guest interaction reflects Casaléna’s commitment to hospitality.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Oversee daily host stand operations, ensuring smooth and organized guest flow.
• Greet and engage guests warmly, creating a polished and welcoming first impression.
• Manage reservations, waitlists, and table assignments using the reservation system.
• Communicate effectively with FOH and BOH teams to align pacing and service flow.
• Support, guide, and coach host team members during service.
• Assist in training new hosts on service standards, systems, and expectations.
• Monitor dining room capacity and adjust seating strategies to optimize service.
• Handle guest inquiries, special requests, and concerns with professionalism and care.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the host stand and entrance area.
• Support management with service coordination during peak hours and events.

EXPECTED BEHAVIORS

Be Welcoming: Create a genuine and memorable first impression for every guest.
Lead by Example: Set the tone for professionalism, urgency, and hospitality.
Stay Organized: Manage reservations and guest flow with clarity and efficiency.
Communicate Clearly: Keep managers and team members informed during service.
Stay Composed: Handle high-volume service and guest concerns with confidence.
Be Service-Driven: Anticipate guest needs and take initiative to enhance their experience.

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum 2–3 years of experience in a host or front-of-house role, preferably in a high-volume or fine-dining environment.
Previous experience in a lead or supervisory role strongly preferred.
Strong communication, organization, and guest service skills.
Experience with reservation systems (OpenTable, Resy, or similar) preferred.
Ability to multitask and remain composed under pressure.
Professional appearance and demeanor aligned with a fine-dining environment.
Must be able to stand for extended periods and work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.

GROWTH OPPORTUNITY

This role offers a pathway into broader Front of House leadership. With demonstrated performance and leadership, the Lead Host can grow into positions such as Maitre D’, FOH Supervisor, or Assistant General Manager, contributing to service standards, training, and operational leadership across future Avondale Hospitality concepts.

SALARY COMPENSATION

$17.87 to $20.00 per hour + Tips, based on experience and leadership capability.
This is a non-exempt position under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).

Pay: $17.87 - $20.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person