Job Title: Door Host
Location: Rio Steakhouse Sunderland
Reports To: Duty Manager / General Manager
Employment Type: Full-Time or Part-Time
About Rio:
Rio is an energetic and authentic Brazilian steakhouse (churrascaria) that delivers more than a meal — we deliver an experience. From the rhythm of the grill to the vibrant service, our guests are welcomed into a world of flavor, celebration, and warm Brazilian hospitality. As the first point of contact, our Door Hosts set the tone for everything that follows.
Position Overview:
As a Door Host at Rio, you'll be the face of the restaurant — warmly greeting guests, managing reservations and waitlists, and ensuring a smooth and welcoming start to their dining experience. You will work closely with the front-of-house team to maintain flow and energy at the entrance and throughout the dining room.
This role is ideal for someone with great people skills, a professional presence, and a genuine passion for hospitality.
Key Responsibilities:
Warm Welcome & First Impressions
* Greet every guest with a warm, friendly, and genuine welcome.
* Create a positive and inviting first impression that reflects the Rio brand.
* Open doors, assist with coats or seating arrangements when appropriate.
Reservations & Guest Flow
* Manage bookings, walk-ins, and waitlists using the reservation system efficiently.
* Accurately quote wait times and keep guests updated while they wait.
* Coordinate seating with floor staff and managers to maintain a balanced and smooth service flow.
Guest Experience & Problem Solving
* Anticipate guest needs and provide timely, helpful assistance.
* Handle any seating requests, accessibility needs, or special occasions with care and attention.
* Communicate guest preferences or concerns to the service team as needed.
Ambience & Cleanliness
* Keep the entrance, host stand, and waiting areas clean, tidy, and welcoming at all times.
* Ensure menus, materials, and displays are updated, presentable, and available.
* Monitor the dining room atmosphere and inform management of any issues with flow or seating.
Team Coordination
* Liaise with servers, duty managers, and the kitchen to ensure guests are seated and served efficiently.
* Provide accurate guest counts and assist with managing large groups or special events.
* Support front-of-house staff with tasks as needed during busy periods.
Qualifications:
* Previous experience in a host/hostess, receptionist, or customer-facing hospitality role preferred.
* Polished communication and interpersonal skills.
* Professional appearance and a calm, confident presence.
* Ability to stay organized, friendly, and focused during busy service periods.
* Familiarity with reservation platforms (e.g. DesignMyNight) is a plus.
* Flexible availability, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
What We Offer:
* Competitive hourly wage + tips
* Full training and support
* Daily staff meals and generous employee discounts
* A lively and team-driven work environment
* Opportunities to grow into reservations, guest services, or management roles
Welcome Guests. Set the Tone. Be the Heart of Rio.
If you take pride in making people feel seen, valued, and excited to dine, we'd love to welcome you as a Door Host at Rio.
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: £12.21-£16.00 per hour
Benefits:
* Company events
* Discounted or free food
* Store discount
Work Location: In person