Part-Time Host front of the house (Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays)

Job Description
Who we are
ÓOL is a taller de cacao, a cacao atelier in SoHo dedicated to bringing cacao back to its roots. For thousands of years, long before it became a candy bar, cacao was prepared and shared as a drink: ground cacao, water, sometimes spices, frothed by hand with a molinillo. ÓOL grew from that tradition and from a deep connection to Mexico and Mesoamerica, and we honor it by serving cacao the way it was meant to be enjoyed, with intention.
We are a fast-casual, upscale concept. Guests order at the counter, then wait or take a seat until their name is called. When their drink is ready to be prepared, they are invited to one of our stations to watch the ritual of making it. We keep things moving, but nothing about the experience is rushed or ordinary. Every drink is prepared with care, and the space, service, and product reflect that. Our guests are curious, discerning New Yorkers and visitors: people who value quality, design, and a story behind what they drink. Alongside our beverage and pastry menu, we offer a curated retail selection of cacao products.
The role
Our host is the first and last impression of ÓOL. You set the tone at the door, welcome every guest, and guide them through the experience. When the owners aren’t on the floor, you carry our voice.
This role is for someone with natural charisma, a warm and steady attitude, and an impeccable presence: someone who handles pressure gracefully, keeps their composure no matter how busy the door gets, and makes every guest feel welcomed and considered.
One thing makes this role unique. Our drinks take time, and during busy periods the wait may be 20, 25, 30 minutes or more. You’ll communicate that clearly and graciously at the door. If a guest chooses to stay, we’re delighted to have them. If they can’t, you’ll let them know we want them to receive the service they deserve and that the time is part of the ritual of preparing cacao with intention. You’ll protect both the guest’s experience and the integrity of what we do, without apology and without pressure.
Responsibilities
Greet and welcome every guest at the door, manage the flow of arrivals, and communicate current wait times with warmth and confidence.
Manage the line outside, keeping guests informed, engaged, and excited about the experience ahead.
Introduce guests to ÓOL and our menu, answer questions, and help them choose the drink, pastry, or product that suits them.
Represent the ÓOL story and philosophy of cacao consistently and authentically.
Keep the service station stocked and tidy: water, napkins, lids, and straws.
Restock glassware and keep it ready for service.
Clear dirty plates and glassware and bring them to the dishwashing area.
Maintain retail shelves: restock, face products, keep displays clean and inviting, and guide guests through our retail selection.
Support the team during peak hours and communicate closely with the bar on timing and flow.
Uphold the look, feel, and cleanliness of the front of house at all times.
What we’re looking for
Charismatic, gracious, and polished in appearance and presence.
Calm under pressure: you handle stress with ease and keep your composure during rushes, long waits, and challenging moments.
Professional at all times, keeping personal emotions and frustrations off the floor so guests only experience warmth and confidence.
Always welcoming, with a genuine smile and a positive, upbeat attitude from open to close
Comfortable delivering honest information (like a long wait) in a way that leaves guests feeling respected.
Reliable, proactive, and trustworthy: someone who notices what needs to be done and does it.
Able to stand for long periods and carry trays, glassware, and stock
Available [weekends / specific shifts]
Preferred
Knowledge of or strong interest in cacao, specialty coffee, tea, or craft beverages
Front-of-house experience in upscale hospitality, specialty cafés, or boutique retail
Spanish language skills preferred.
How to Apply
Send your résumé to talent@oolcacao.com with a few sentences about why ÓOL speaks to you and your weekly availability. If you have experience with cacao, or any personal connection to it, we'd love to hear about it.9 total views, 9 today