Opening Fall 2026, Bardo Elora is an exciting new restaurant located in the heart of Elora along the Grand River. As part of the Elora Mill property, we're creating a destination where exceptional food, genuine hospitality, and unforgettable experiences come together. This is a unique opportunity to join a founding team, help shape a new restaurant from the ground up, and be part of something remarkable from day one.
The Lead Host is warm, friendly and inviting, providing each guest visiting the property with a genuine welcome and thoughtful service. The individual in this role is organized and focused with an incredible eye for the smallest details. They are able to motivate their host team and hold them accountable to a high standard of service and guest satisfaction. The lead host is always looking for ways to impress and is self-motivated by a desire to ensure positive guest experiences. The Lead Host becomes a personal representation of the service and overall hospitality of Bardo Elora through their communication with guests in person, on the telephone and by email, setting the stage for positive and lasting first impressions.
*This position requires daytime, weekend, and holiday work. Flexible availability is vital in a successful candidate.*
Compensation for this role is estimated at $23.50/hour, which includes a base wage of $20/hour plus direct tips from guests. Tip amounts are paid directly by guests and are expected to average approximately $3.50/hour, though actual amounts will vary depending on factors such as guest volume and seasonality. While tips are not guaranteed, they can be a meaningful part of overall earnings in this position.
What makes you the perfect candidate:
- You are passionate about providing memorable guest experiences.
- You enjoy working as part of a team and supporting those around you.
- You have 2-3 years of customer service experience as well as some leadership experience.
- Experience operating OpenTable software is considered an asset.
- You are Smart Serve Certified.
- You are looking for a position with endless growth opportunities.
Accountabilities:
- Lead the restaurant’s opening each day, ensuring the space, team, and front-of-house operations are fully prepared and set up for a successful service, as well as attending to any counter needs
- Proudly represent and lead the host team; providing guidance, direction and training to maintain standards and help to maximize the potential of other team members
- Continually look for ways to increase efficiency and productivity, create new processes and procedures to raise the bar on service and effectiveness of host position
- Gain a thorough understanding of OpenTable and Micros software to maximize floor plans and reservations; share knowledge of software systems with team members
- Confidently and courteously handle the first experience for guests whether that be in person, over the telephone or digitally via email- answering questions or direct inquiries appropriately and in a timely manner
- Present a welcoming & inviting front door aesthetic by keeping entrances, outdoor walkways clean and tidy and ensuring host area and coat check is uncluttered, well-stocked and organized
- Direct and instruct the dining room staff on guest needs and special requests
- Attend weekly FOH management meetings and ensure all information relevant to the department is relayed promptly, accurately, and efficiently.
- Ensure dining room menus are correct and in perfect condition; confirm any special event menus have been prepared and are printed accurately.
- Look ahead at future reservations to ensure all details are in place and all departments are informed of upcoming requirements
- Maintain guest database, update details at each opportunity, strive to expand guest profiles to elevate service and be able to anticipate needs
- Act as an ambassador of the property, a liaison between guests and management, sales team, team members
- Continually seek ways to provide outstanding service, demonstrating for other hosts how to exceed guests’ expectations
Advantages to being part of the Bardo Elora Team!
- Competitive wages
- Discounts at all Pearle Hospitality properties (restaurants, golf, hotels and spas)
- Co-paid benefits for permanent team members after 3 months
- Training and Development to support personal & professional growth
- Career opportunities across all Pearle Hospitality properties
- A fun place to work with an amazing team & company culture!
Pearle Hospitality and affiliated companies, including Bardo and Elora Mill Hotel & Spa, accommodate the needs of job applicants throughout its recruitment and selection processes in accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act. Accommodation needs must be provided in advance. To discuss your needs, please contact the hiring manager.
#INDEMH
Pay: From $23.50 per hour
Benefits:
- Company events
- Dental care
- Discounted or free food
- Employee assistance program
- Life insurance
- Store discount
- Vision care
Ability to commute/relocate:
- Elora, ON: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (preferred)
Application question(s):
- Are you presently or have you ever been employed by any affiliated Pearle Hospitality properties? If YES, List location (ETT: Bardo, The Pearle Hotel & Spa, Cambridge Mill, Elora Mill Hotel & Spa, Ancaster Mill, Spencer's At The Waterfront, Whistle Bear Golf Club)
Experience:
- OpenTable: 1 year (preferred)
Work Location: In person
