What role does the host/hostess play in relation to servers?

The host or hostess plays a crucial role in managing the seating assignments and helping to ensure a smooth flow of guest traffic within the restaurant. This position is integral to the overall dining experience, as it involves greeting guests, determining where they will be seated, and balancing the workload among the servers. By effectively organizing seating, the host or hostess helps to minimize wait times, manage wait lists, and optimize the efficiency of service.

This coordination is essential because it directly affects how many guests are served at any given time and ensures that servers are not overwhelmed, allowing for a better quality of service. The other roles mentioned, such as cooking meals, taking orders, and handling payments, fall to the kitchen staff and servers, underscoring the distinct yet collaborative responsibilities within the restaurant environment.