Captain

Position Summary

The Fine Dining Captain plays a key leadership role in delivering an exceptional, personalized dining experience for club members and their guests. Captains act as the primary liaison between the front-of-house team, the kitchen, and members, ensuring that service is warm, professional, and seamlessly executed. This position combines hands-on service with team leadership, maintaining the highest standards of hospitality, discretion, and consistency expected in a private club setting.

Key Responsibilities

Member Service & Hospitality

Serve as the primary point of contact for members in the assigned section, offering attentive, polished, and anticipatory service throughout their visit.

Build and maintain strong member relationships—recognizing preferences, anticipating needs, and personalizing service accordingly.

Present menus, describe daily features, make thoughtful food and beverage recommendations, and answer detailed questions about ingredients and preparation.

Oversee pacing of the meal to align with member expectations, ensuring each course is delivered at the proper time and temperature.

Handle special requests and member concerns with discretion, urgency, and a service-first mindset.

Team Leadership & Coordination

Lead and support servers, back servers, runners, and support staff to ensure synchronized, efficient service.

Conduct section pre-shift meetings to review menu updates, wine pairings, member notes, and special events.

Act as the communication bridge between the kitchen, service team, and management for assigned tables.

Enforce service standards, table settings, and the private club’s sequence of service.

Monitor table maintenance, cleanliness, and presentation throughout service.

Operational Excellence

Ensure accurate order entry, timing, and course pacing through coordination with expeditors and culinary team.

Assist with training and mentoring new service staff in fine dining technique and club standards.

Support the management team in maintaining a consistent, member-focused service culture.

Contribute to service planning for special events, wine dinners, and member functions as needed.

Food & Beverage Knowledge

Maintain a high level of knowledge about the menu, daily specials, wine list, and beverage offerings.

Provide guidance on food and wine pairings, upselling where appropriate in a manner that feels genuine and service-driven.

Participate in tastings and training sessions to stay current on seasonal changes and culinary initiatives.

Skills & Qualifications

2–3 years of fine dining service experience; previous captain or lead server experience preferred.

Experience in private clubs or luxury hospitality environments strongly preferred.

Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills with a focus on discretion and relationship-building.

Strong leadership and organizational abilities, with the capacity to manage a section and support a team during peak service.

Solid wine and beverage knowledge; formal wine education or certifications a plus.

Impeccable personal presentation and attention to detail.

Physical Requirements

Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.

Ability to carry trays, plates, and glassware with finesse.

Availability to work evenings, weekends, holidays, and club events as required.