Front Of House Manager

At The Strand Cafe located inside The Canopy by Hilton Downtown Ithaca, we pride ourselves on providing exceptional hospitality experiences to our guests. Our Strand Cafe offers a modern refined vibe featuring a menu with locally sourced ingredients. We're currently seeking a dynamic and experienced Front of House Manager to oversee operations for our front of house team and ensure the highest level of service for our guests.

As the Front of House Manager, you will lead and coordinate the restaurant's front-of-house team, including servers, hosts, and bartenders, to deliver an outstanding dining experience. Your role will involve managing guest interactions, staff performance, and operational efficiency, all while maintaining a positive, professional environment.

• Guest Service Management: Ensure all guests receive exceptional service from the moment they arrive until their departure. Handle guest inquiries, requests, and complaints in a professional manner.

• Team Leadership: Lead, train, and motivate front-of-house staff to achieve high service standards. Foster a positive and cooperative working environment.

• Operational Efficiency: Oversee daily restaurant operations, ensuring seamless communication between the front and back-of-house teams. Monitor table turnover, seating arrangements, and reservations.

• Staff Scheduling & Training: Create staff schedules and ensure adequate coverage during peak times. Schedule accordingly for banquets and events. Organize training sessions to enhance team performance and service quality.

• Quality Control: Ensure the restaurant environment is clean, well-maintained, and presentable at all times. Monitor the quality of food and beverages being served, ensuring they meet the restaurant’s standards.

• Inventory & Ordering: Oversee front-of-house supplies and alcohol supplies, works closely with the management team to ensure the restaurant is fully stocked and prepared for daily operations.

• Financial Management: Assist with tracking revenue, managing budgets, processing weekly tip outs and ensuring cost control measures are in place.

• Collaboration: Work closely with the Hotel General Manager, Head Chef, Sales Manager and other departments to ensure a cohesive guest experience across the hotel. Along with managing social media outlets for The Strand Cafe. 

• Minimum 2-3 years of experience in a front-of-house management role, preferably in a hotel or fine dining restaurant.
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills with the ability to motivate and develop a team.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and remain calm under pressure.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to handle guest complaints professionally.
• Proficiency in restaurant management software and basic computer programs (Microsoft Office, POS systems, etc.).
• A passion for hospitality and a commitment to delivering outstanding guest experiences.
• A flexible schedule with the ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.

• Competitive salary and tips
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off 
• Professional development opportunities
• Discounted hotel and restaurant rates