SLCT Host Full Time

State and Lake Chicago Tavern @ theWit

State and Lake Chicago Tavern is located in the heart of downtown Chicago’s Loop and Theater District at the iconic intersection of State and Lake Streets. Surrounded by major hotels, corporate offices, shopping destinations, entertainment venues, and public transportation, the restaurant attracts a diverse mix of locals, tourists, business professionals, and theatergoers year-round. The fast-paced, high-traffic environment provides team members with experience in upscale hospitality, elevated American tavern dining, live entertainment service, and high-volume guest engagement in one of Chicago’s most vibrant neighborhoods.

Position Overview – Host:

As a Host at the State and Lake Chicago Tavern, you’ll be the first point of contact for guests, you will create a warm and welcoming experience by managing reservations, coordinating seating, and ensuring smooth restaurant operations. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment, possesses strong communication and organizational skills, and is passionate about delivering exceptional hospitality that reflects the energy and service excellence of both the restaurant and hotel.

Responsibilities:

• Greet and welcome guests as they arrive, ensuring a positive first impression.

• Manage reservations and efficiently assign guests to tables based on availability and preferences.

• Answer phone calls and assist with inquiries regarding reservations, menu items, and wait times.

• Maintain the flow of the dining area by keeping track of open, occupied, and reserved tables.

• Provide guests with accurate wait times and ensure they are comfortable while waiting.

• Ensure all guests are seated in a timely manner, accommodating special requests when possible.

• Monitor the dining area to ensure a clean, organized, and welcoming environment.

• Assist servers and management with other front-of-house tasks as needed, such as restocking menus or adjusting seating arrangements.

• Handle guest concerns or complaints professionally and escalate to management when necessary.

• Maintain knowledge of the restaurant's menu, specials, and events to provide accurate information to guests.

• Uphold restaurant standards for guest service, cleanliness, and presentation.

• Actively participate in Safety Plan and energy improvements.

• Communicate both verbally and in writing to provide clear directions to staff regarding guests/seating.

• Comply with attendance rules and be available to work on a regular basis.

• Post side work duties and ensure staff completes side work as instructed.

• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• At least 1 year of experience in a hotel or related field preferred.

• Previous experience as a Host, Server, or in a customer service role preferred.

• Comprehensive understanding of the English language.

• Ability to walk, bend, and lift light objects (menus, menus, etc.) throughout the shift.

• Ability to stand for long periods of time without sitting or leaning.

• Knowledge of basic sanitary guidelines.

• Able to work: Holidays, weekends and any day/shift.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with a friendly, welcoming attitude.

• Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment while maintaining attention to detail.

• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage time effectively.

• Ability to handle guest inquiries, complaints, and concerns with professionalism and courtesy.

• Basic knowledge of reservation systems and/or point-of-sale (POS) systems is a plus. 

• Effectively respond to guest complaints.  Promote teamwork and associate morale. 

• Maintain knowledge of hotel property, hotel staff, hotel services, hotel service hours of operation and hotel surroundings (i.e. mall, restaurants).

• Adhere to all work rules, procedures and policies established by the company.

Working Conditions:

• Fast-paced hospitality environment.

• Requires extended periods of standing and walking.

• May involve occasional lifting of items up to 25 lbs.

• Indoor work environment with frequent movement throughout the restaurant 

• Must be able to lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. 

Compensation:

• $19.00 per hour

Benefits:

We offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the health, well-being, and financial security of our employees. Our offerings include:

• Medical Plans: Choice of three plans to meet your healthcare needs.

• Dental Plans: Two options for dental coverage.

• Vision Insurance: Coverage for routine eye care and eyewear.

• Paid Time Off (PTO): To support work-life balance.

• Accident/Hospital Indemnity/Critical Illness plans (new for 2026).

• 401(k) Retirement Plan: Plan for your future with employer contributions.

• Flexible Spending Account (FSA): Pre-tax savings for healthcare and dependent care expenses.

• Life and AD&D Insurance: Employer-provided coverage with additional voluntary options.

• Short-Term Disability (STD): Employer-provided coverage to support you during temporary disability.

• Voluntary Long-Term Disability (LTD): Additional protection for extended disability.

• Commuter Benefits: Save on transit and parking expenses.

• Pet Insurance: Options to support your furry family members.

• Hilton travel discounts and employee room rates worldwide

• Career growth and training opportunities

• Access to wellness programs and employee appreciation events

Please note that eligibility for certain benefits may vary depending on your employment status. Detailed information, including plan summaries and enrollment instructions, will be provided during onboarding or upon request. This summary complies with applicable state laws and is subject to change based on legislative updates or company policies.

E-Verify Participation:

theWit Hotel participates in the U.S. Department of Homeland Security E-Verify program to confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees.

Equal Employment Opportunity:

theWit Hotel and ROOF on theWit are proud to be Equal Opportunity Employers. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.