*Head Waiter/Waitress - Kensington, London*
*About Us*
The Roof Gardens were originally created in the Art Deco period and opened in 1933. In the late 60's the building was taken over by fashion powerhouse Biba and was the pulse of Swinging London. 100 ft high above Kensington High Street, set across 3 floors with over an acre of gardens, The Roof Gardens will be a next generation members club that is future-facing, committed to innovation and community, to discovery and to delight. The club will open in Spring/Summer 2024 as a world-leading members’ club affording its community beautiful gardens, bars, restaurants and events spaces alongside a visionary cultural and music programme.
*The Role*
We are looking for a confident Head Waiter to join The Roof Gardens to be part of the busy front of house team. With your passion for food and wine, and good understanding of restaurant operations, you will become a familiar and friendly face for our members and make their experience of our restaurant spaces positive from start to finish.
*Key Responsibilities:*
* *Exceptional Service:* Be the primary point of contact for member feedback on the floor, handling any queries or team conflicts immediately to enhance overall dining experience. Direct junior team members and liaise with the bar and sommeliers when required.
* *Restaurant Operations:* Before service, prepare restaurant with the team ensuring all stock and supplies are ready and equipment is functional. During service, welcome guests to tables, check allergy statuses, discuss menu specials, take orders and make suggestions. Bring food to tables and oversee table clearer with junior members, process all bills and payments using the POS system.
* *Training and Admin:* Attend training workshops and briefings to deepen your understanding of member’s preferences and requirements. Handle general administration and know the SOP manual.
* *Compliance:* Ensure the restaurant operates in compliance with all relevant laws and regulations, including those related to service, health and safety, and sanitation.
*Skills & Requirements*
* Minimum 3 years' luxury market experience
* Strong memory for names and faces
* Willingness to work flexible hours, including nights and weekends
* Punctual, reliable, diplomatic, and calm under pressure
* Good knowledge of food and wine, with a passion for learning
* Detail-oriented with ability to anticipate challenges
* Excellent communicator with strong organizational skills
* Friendly demeanour, enjoys supporting colleagues
* Energetic, resilient, and characterful
*Benefits*
* Salary above market rate
* 30 days holiday + 1 extra day ‘celebrate you day’
* Access to benefits platform
* Free meal during your shift
* Uniform and dry cleaning provided
* Access to financial well-being platform Wagestream
* 24/7 access to well-being support
* Growth opportunities, both personally and professionally
* Breakout spaces where you can shower, securely leave your things, and relax with colleagues
* Pension scheme, including employer contributions
* Team socials to celebrate the wins
We are a community united by attitude, curiosity and optimism, not defined by background. We celebrate individuality and free expression. It doesn't matter where you have come from, it's where you are going. The Roof Gardens is a welcoming place of acceptance where growth is nurtured, experiences are shared, stories are exchanged and ideas are born.
If you’d like to join us on the next chapter of The Roof Gardens, we’d love to hear from you.