Speciality Restaurant Hostess - InterContinental Abu Dhabi

Located within the iconic InterContinental Abu Dhabi, our Michelin-selected seafood restaurant is a destination in itself. Renowned for its refined menu, pristine seafood, and stunning waterfront views, the restaurant offers an elevated dining experience blending local Emirati charm with international excellence. Every dish reflects precision, passion, and a deep respect for the ocean — all delivered with the world-class service InterContinental is known for.

As a Specialty Restaurant Hostess, you will be the first point of contact for guests, embodying the warmth, sophistication, and professionalism that define both InterContinental Hotels and Michelin-rated service. You will manage reservations, coordinate guest arrivals, and set the tone for an unforgettable dining experience.

This role is ideal for someone who thrives in high-end hospitality, understands the nuances of fine dining service, and is passionate about guest engagement.

A little taste of your day-to-day:

Every day is different, but you’ll mostly do:

Guest Experience

• Welcome guests with genuine warmth, poise, and attentiveness in alignment with Michelin standards and IHG service values.
• Manage the reservation system, ensuring optimal table allocation and guest flow.
• Maintain a waitlist during peak hours and provide accurate wait times.
• Escort guests to their tables, present menus, and inform service staff of any guest-specific needs or preferences.
• Recognize returning guests and VIPs, offering personalized service and greetings.
• Handle special requests, dietary restrictions, and celebrations with discretion and care.

Operational Duties

• Ensure the hostess station and reception area are always clean, organized, and presentable.
• Monitor dining room flow and communicate seating updates with the service team to maintain smooth operations.
• Update floor plans and guest notes daily to reflect special occasions or high-profile reservations.
• Support the coordination of private dining events and chef’s table experiences.
• Work closely with hotel concierge, guest relations, and front office teams to manage in-house guest bookings.

Brand Representation & Standards

• Uphold InterContinental’s brand standards and the service expectations of a Michelin-selected establishment at all times.
• Maintain a polished appearance and adhere strictly to the restaurant's grooming and uniform standards.
• Attend daily pre-service briefings and participate in ongoing training to stay informed about new menu items, promotions, and brand initiatives.

What we need from you:

• Minimum of 1–2 years in a fine dining or luxury hotel environment.
• Prior experience with Michelin-starred or Michelin-selected restaurants is highly preferred.
• Experience with modern reservation systems
• Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills.
• Fluency in English is required; Arabic or other languages (e.g., French, Russian, Mandarin) are a strong asset.
• Professional, elegant, and confident demeanor.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work calmly under pressure and in a fast-paced environment.
• Culturally sensitive with a global mindset and commitment to hospitality excellence.

What you can expect from us:

We give our people everything they need to succeed. From a competitive salary that rewards all your hard work to a wide range of benefits designed to help you live your best work life – impressive room discounts and some of the best training in the business.

Our mission is to welcome everyone and create inclusive teams where we celebrate difference and encourage colleagues to bring their whole selves to work. IHG Hotels & Resorts provides equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability. We promote a culture of trust, support, and acceptance. Always welcoming different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives.

IHG gives every member of the team the room they need to belong, grow and make a difference in a collaborative environment. We know that to work well, we need to feel well – both inside and outside of work – and through our myWellbeing framework, we are committed to supporting wellbeing in your health, lifestyle, and workplace.

So, join us and you’ll become part of our ever-growing global family.

Don't quite meet every single requirement, but still believe you'd be a great fit for the job? We'll never know unless you hit the 'Apply' button. Start your journey with us today.