What is a maître d'? Meaning, duties & role

A clear guide to the maître d': what the title means, how to say it, front-of-house duties, guest service, reservations, and the role in a modern restaurant.

Start your 7-day trial — €0 today

Meaning and role of a maître d’

Maître d’ is short for maître d’hôtel, the person traditionally responsible for the front of house: reservations, greetings, seating, service coordination, and the guest experience in the room.