Which position in a restaurant is typically the first point of contact for guests?

The position that serves as the first point of contact for guests in a restaurant is the hostess or host. This individual plays a vital role in shaping the guests' initial impression of the restaurant. They are responsible for greeting guests as they arrive, which sets the tone for the entire dining experience. The hostess or host manages the seating arrangements and often helps to communicate wait times, menus, and special features of the restaurant.

In contrast, a manager typically oversees the overall operation of the restaurant and may interact with guests but is not usually stationed at the entrance. Chefs primarily focus on food preparation and kitchen management and are usually not involved in direct guest interactions at the front of the house. Servers interact with guests after they have been seated, providing service and taking orders, but they do so after the initial greeting handled by the hostess or host. Hence, the hostess or host is key in welcoming guests and ensuring they feel attended to right from the moment they enter the establishment.