Restaurant & Bar Host

Parker’s Tavern; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 10,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious hotel restaurant in Cambridge is seeking a Restaurant & Bar Host to be the first point of contact for guests. In this role, you will manage reservations, warmly welcome guests, and support seamless restaurant and bar service. Ideal candidates will have previous front-of-house experience, outstanding communication skills, and be comfortable managing reservation systems. This position offers competitive pay, free meals, and discounts across the Marriott portfolio.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Free meals on duty

Team Member Parties

Room and F&B discounts across Marriott portfolio

Referral bonus up to £400

Qualifications

• Previous host/hostess or front-of-house experience in a luxury environment.
• Ability to manage reservation systems effectively.
• Demonstrated warmth and confidence in guest interactions.

Responsibilities

• Welcome and escort guests to tables, ensuring a positive experience.
• Manage reservations, waitlists, and guest flow efficiently.
• Handle guest enquiries and requests professionally.

Skills

Exceptional communication skills

Guest service skills

Ability to stay calm under pressure

Organisational skills

Tools

OpenTable

Job description

University Arms is a 192‑bedroom design‑led Hotel situated in the heart of Cambridge, United Kingdom. Overlooking Parker’s Piece the Hotel’s quintessentially British Restaurant and Bar – Parker’s Tavern, Library Lounge – and a beautiful 272‑square‑metre wood‑panelled Ballroom. It opened in 1834 as a Coaching Inn and is Cambridge’s oldest Hotel. For 180 years the Hotel was added to, updated, and modernised in line with the age; however, it was the 2018 reopening after a four‑year £80 m full renovation that really positioned the Hotel. It is now Cambridge's go‑to destination, alluring visitors with the promise of a sense of modern luxury.

What Will You Be Doing

As a Restaurant & Bar Host, you will be the first point of contact for guests, creating a positive and polished first impression. You will manage reservations, greet and seat guests, and support the smooth flow of both restaurant and bar service at all times.

The Duties

• Warmly welcome and escort guests to their tables in the restaurant and bar
• Manage reservations, walk‑ins, waitlists, and guest flow efficiently
• Maintain a polished and organised reception/host desk area
• Communicate effectively with the restaurant, bar, and management teams
• Provide accurate information about menus, promotions, and services
• Handle guest enquiries, requests, and feedback with professionalism
• Assist with coordinating VIP arrivals, special occasions, and large groups
• Take credit card payments and pre‑orders for large groups and update the pastry team daily for any afternoon tea bookings
• Ensure guest seating is optimised to maximise experience and revenue
• Support opening, closing, and daily host duties as required

What Are We Looking For In You

• Have previous host/hostess or front‑of‑house experience (luxury environment preferred)
• Demonstrate exceptional communication and guest service skills
• Present yourself with confidence, warmth, and impeccable grooming
• Stay calm and organised during busy periods
• Are comfortable managing reservation systems (e.g., OpenTable)
• Are flexible to work evenings, weekends, and public holidays

The Perks

As well as the opportunity to work with a fantastic team in an exceptional property, the position comes with:

• Competitive salary
• Free meals on duty
• Team Member Parties
• Room and F&B discounts across the Marriott portfolio
• Refer a friend – who do you know who could be interested in a new role? When they are placed, you could earn up to £400 for referring them!

Right To Work

In line with the requirements of UK immigration legislation, all applicants must be eligible to live and work in the UK. Documentary evidence of eligibility to work will be required from candidates as part of the recruitment process.