Host

About Kumiko

Kumiko is a Japanese Dining Bar in Chicago's West Loop, founded by Julia Momosé. Recognized among North America's leading hospitality destinations, Kumiko has received the James Beard Award for Outstanding Bar , the Michter's Art of Hospitality Award , recognition from the Michelin Guide Chicago , inclusion on North America's 50 Best Bars , and three pins from The Pinnacle Guide.

At Kumiko, hospitality is not simply service—it is the thoughtful practice of caring for others. Every detail matters, from the first reservation inquiry to the final farewell.

Position Summary

The Host is the first and last point of contact for our guests and plays an essential role in shaping the guest experience at Kumiko. From responding to reservation inquiries and managing guest communications to welcoming guests at the door, the Host sets the tone for every visit.

This role is ideal for someone with experience in luxury hotels, fine dining restaurants, concierge services, private clubs, or other high-touch hospitality environments. The successful candidate is warm, poised, highly organized, and able to remain gracious and composed in a fast-paced setting.

Bilingual or multilingual candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary point of contact for guest communications via email, telephone, text message, and in-person interactions.
• Guide guests through reservations, dietary accommodations, celebrations, and special requests.
• Research guests prior to their visits and maintain detailed guest profiles to support personalized hospitality.
• Welcome guests warmly and confidently, creating a seamless arrival experience.
• Anticipate guest needs and resolve concerns with professionalism, empathy, and discretion.
• Maintain open communication with management, kitchen, and service teams to ensure exceptional execution of each guest experience.
• Create and distribute detailed guest notes, including celebrations, allergies, aversions, and other important information.
• Enter and maintain guest preferences and visit history to support future visits.
• Manage reservation books on SevenRooms: waitlists, floor plans, and guest communications with accuracy and attention to detail.
• Manage waitlist and reservation requests as they are received.
• Ensure menus and guest-facing materials are prepared and presented to Kumiko standards.

Qualifications

• Previous experience in hospitality, guest relations, luxury hotels, fine dining restaurants, concierge services, or similar guest-facing roles preferred.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to remain calm, professional, and solution-oriented under pressure.
• Proficiency with reservation platforms, email communication, and phone systems.
• Strong judgment and decision-making skills.
• A genuine passion for hospitality and caring for others.
• Evening, weekend, and holiday availability required.

Compensation & Benefits

• Guaranteed compensation: $18–$23 per hour (s tarting base wage of $14/hour supplemented by service charges)
• Health insurance available for employees working 30+ hours per week
• Paid time off
• Sick leave
• Ongoing food, beverage, and hospitality education opportunities

Our Ideal Candidate

You believe that hospitality is found in the details. You enjoy making people feel welcome, communicate with warmth and clarity, and take pride in creating memorable experiences. You understand that excellence and kindness can coexist, and you bring both to every interaction.