Host

Description

Umami Riot was born from a simple idea: pair joyful hospitality with uncompromising craftsmanship. Founded by Chef Tim Cushman and sake expert Nancy Cushman, our restaurants celebrate bold flavor, precision, and a deep respect for Japanese foodways – translated through a distinctly Boston lens. At Umami Riot, we’re not here to follow the rules of hospitality, we’re here to rewrite them – with heart, craft and fearless creativity.

Hojoko is where it all comes to life. A Japanese-inspired tavern fueled by loud music, high energy, and seriously good food. It’s where high-end technique meets low-key fun—wagyu cheeseburgers, spicy ramen, sake bombs—executed with the same precision and care as a fine dining kitchen. We take flavor seriously…everything else, not so much.

We’re looking for a Host who runs the door with style, warmth, and undeniable presence.

THE GIG (AKA WHAT YOU’LL ACTUALLY BE DOING)

• •First impression ownership — warm, confident, unmistakably polished, and setting the tone the moment guests walk through the door
• •Control of the front-of-house rhythm, managing reservations, waitlists, and seating flow with clarity and ease
• •Guest connection built through calm communication, accurate wait times, and an ability to make people feel seen, cared for, and excited to be here
• •A host stand and entryway kept clean, organized, and polished, with attention to detail throughout opening and closing duties
• •Active support of the dining room through table resets, floor organization, and team collaboration during busy services
• •A steady, guest-ready presence through long, high-energy shifts, jumping in where needed and showing up reliably for nights, weekends, and holidays

THIS ROLE IS A GREAT FIT IF…

• •You love connecting with people and making great first impressions
• •You stay calm, friendly, and composed in high-energy moments
• •You’re naturally organized and enjoy keeping things running smoothly
• •You know how to communicate clearly and gracefully
• •You take pride in being the tone-setter for the entire experience
• •You bring poise, warmth, and good energy every shift

Requirements

THIS ROLE IS A GREAT FIT IF…

• •You love connecting with people and making great first impressions
• •You stay calm, friendly, and composed in high-energy moments
• •You’re naturally organized and enjoy keeping things running smoothly
• •You know how to communicate clearly and gracefully
• •You take pride in being the tone-setter for the entire experience
• •You bring poise, warmth, and good energy every shift

LET’S SET EXPECTATIONS (IN A GOOD WAY)

This is a high-energy restaurant where the pace is constant, the room stays lively, and the floor never really slows down.

You’ll spend your shifts front and center — moving with confidence through a busy dining room, connecting with guests, and staying locked into the rhythm of service — in a hands-on role that values presence, polish, and a strong commitment to cleanliness, safety, and hospitality standards. We’re committed to providing reasonable accommodations to support individuals in performing the essential functions of the role.

WHY PEOPLE STICK AROUND

• •Competitive hourly pay - because your work matters
• •Dining discounts across all Umami Riot locations
• •Growth that’s real (not just talked about)
• •A team culture rooted in respect, creativity, and heart

Pay Range: $17 - $20 per hour based on experience

EOE