FOH Supervisor
Cafe Mulberry
Job Description
The FOH Supervisor is responsible for providing leadership and oversight of front-of-house operations during assigned shifts. This is an hourly, non-exempt supervisory position responsible for directing FOH employees, maintaining service standards, resolving guest issues, and supporting the smooth operation of the restaurant. The FOH Supervisor does not have independent authority to hire, terminate, promote, set compensation, or issue formal disciplinary action.
These responsibilities remain with restaurant management.
OVERVIEW:
Service Leadership: Maintain a visible presence on the floor throughout service; monitor pacing, sequence of service, table maintenance and overall guest experience; step into FOH positions as necessary to support service.
Staff Leadership: Provide real-time coaching and feedback to FOH employees; reinforce service standards, uniform/grooming requirements and restaurant policies; document and communicate employee performance or conduct concerns to management.
Communication: Communicate menu changes, 86'd items, allergies, VIPs, special occasions and operational issues to FOH staff; maintain effective communication between FOH, BOH and management.
Reservation Management: Oversee the reservation system, confirming and managing bookings to optimize table turnover and accommodate guest preferences. Handle special requests and coordinate with kitchen and FOH staff. Communicate with guests via our texting app throughout the shift and accommodate as needed
Safety & Compliance: Ensure FOH employees follow applicable food-safety, sanitation, workplace-safety and responsible alcohol-service procedures; immediately report accidents, injuries, harassment complaints or other significant incidents to management.
Shift Reporting: Complete shift notes/reports regarding covers, guest issues, employee issues, maintenance concerns, incidents and other relevant information for management.
Restaurant Standards: Ensure dining room, bar, host stand, restrooms and other guest-facing areas are clean, organized, properly set and maintained throughout service.
Training: Assist management with onboarding and training new FOH employees and reinforcing established service standards.
Opening/Closing: Verify completion of opening/closing checklists, sidework, cash procedures and restaurant security procedures.
Perform other duties reasonably related to the position as assigned by restaurant management.
Qualifications & Requirements
- Minimum 2 years of experience in a full-service restaurant environment; prior supervisory or shift-lead experience preferred.
- Strong understanding of front-of-house service standards, restaurant operations, and guest relations.
- Demonstrated ability to lead, direct, and support a FOH team in a fast-paced, high-volume environment.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to remain calm, professional, and solutions-oriented when handling guest complaints or operational challenges.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple responsibilities during service.
- Experience with restaurant POS and reservation management systems preferred.
- Comfortable handling cash, reconciling payments and tips, and following established cash-control procedures.
- Ability to work collaboratively with FOH, BOH, and management teams.
- Reliable, punctual, and able to maintain a professional appearance and demeanor.
- Must be available to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as required by the business.
- Ability to stand and walk for extended periods and perform the physical duties reasonably required of the position.
- Must meet all applicable New York City and New York State requirements for restaurant employees.