Hosts and Hostesses, Restaurant, Lounge, and Coffee Shop
Welcome patrons, seat them at tables or in lounge, and help ensure quality of facilities and service.
SOC: 35-9031.00
Common Job Titles
Buffet Hostess
Greeter
Host
Hostess
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
MindsetEngage with diverse patrons to create a welcoming dining experience in high-volume restaurant, lounge, or coffee shop settings.
Developing
KnowledgeApply seating strategies and table management principles to optimize guest flow and wait times during peak service periods.
Developing
MindsetRespect patron preferences and special requests while balancing operational constraints and service standards.
Developing
Hands-onOperate reservation software and point-of-sale systems to manage bookings and coordinate table assignments efficiently.
Developing
KnowledgeApply active listening and social perceptiveness skills to anticipate patron needs and address concerns proactively.
Developing
KnowledgeDistinguish service quality issues and facility maintenance needs through continuous monitoring of dining areas and front-of-house operations.
Developing
MindsetRespond to patron conflicts and service complaints using negotiation and problem-solving approaches to maintain satisfaction.
Developing
KnowledgeDemonstrate coordination between front-of-house and service staff to ensure seamless communication and dining experience delivery.
Developing
KnowledgeExplain menu offerings, wait times, and establishment policies clearly to patrons using customer service and food production knowledge.
Developing
MindsetParticipate in team meetings and training sessions to support continuous improvement of service standards and hospitality practices.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Hosts and Hostesses, Restaurant, Lounge, and Coffee Shop (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
427,150
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $22,010. 25th percentile: U.S. $26,630. 50th percentile: U.S. $30,380. 75th percentile: U.S. $35,840. 90th percentile: U.S. $42,600. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$22,010
10% of workers earn the following or more
$42,600
Workers on average earn
$32,030
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Customer and Personal Service4.5/5
English Language3.8/5
Food Production3.7/5
Sales and Marketing3.4/5
Mathematics3.0/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
