Luau Server (Casual)
Company : Highgate
Location : Lahaina, HI, 96761
Job Type : Part Time
Date Posted : 8 January 2026
Compensation Type
HourlyHighgate Hotels
Highgate is a leading real estate investment and hospitality management company with over $15 billion of assets under management and a global portfolio of more than 400 hotels spanning North America, Europe, the Caribbean, and Latin America.
With a 30-year track record as an innovator in the hospitality industry, this forward-thinking company provides expert guidance through all stages of the property cycle, from planning and development through recapitalization or disposition. Highgate continues to demonstrate success in developing a diverse portfolio of bespoke lifestyle hotel brands, legacy brands, and independent hotels and resorts, featuring contemporary programming and digital acumen. The company utilizes industry-leading revenue management tools that efficiently identify and predict evolving market dynamics to drive outperformance and maximize asset value.
With an executive team of seasoned hospitality leaders and corporate offices worldwide, Highgate is a trusted partner for top ownership groups and major hotel brands. www.highgate.com
Overview
The Outlet Server is responsible for providing the highest quality of service to guests in an attentive, courteous, and efficient manner. He/she is also responsible for receiving and delivering guests orders and collecting payment.
Responsibilities
- Must be able to effectively communicate both verbally and written, with all level of employees and guests in an attentive, friendly, courteous and service oriented manner.
- Must be effective at listening to, understanding, and clarifying concerns raised by employees and guests.
- Must be able to multitask and prioritize departmental functions to meet deadlines.
- Approach all encounters with guests and employees in an attentive, friendly, courteous and service-oriented manner.
- Attend all hotel required meetings and trainings.
- Maintain regular attendance in compliance with Highgate Hotel Standards, as required by scheduling, which will vary according to the needs of the hotel.
- Maintain high standards of personal appearance and grooming, which includes wearing the proper uniform and nametag.
- Comply with Highgate Hotel Standards and regulations to encourage safe and efficient hotel operations.
- Maximize efforts towards productivity, identify problem areas and assist in implementing solutions.
- Must be effective in handling problems, including anticipating, preventing, identifying and solving problems as necessary.
- Must be able to understand and apply complex information, data, etc. from various sources to meet appropriate objectives.
- Must be able to cross-train in other hotel related areas.
- Must be able to maintain confidentiality of information.
- Must be able to show initiative, including anticipating guest or operational needs.
- Perform other duties as requested by management.
- Maintain a friendly and warm demeanor at all times.
Qualifications
- Employees must at all times be attentive, friendly, helpful and courteous to all guests, managers and fellow employees.
- Be familiar with the organization of the Restaurant(s), Outlets, and Room Service and know the function of each job position.
- Have a thorough knowledge of menus and current specials in applicable outlets.
- Service guests with all food and beverage requirements in an attentive, courteous, and efficient manner.
- Pre-bus all tables removing soiled dishes after each course.
- Be familiar with the operation of the P.O.S system.
- Perform cashiering functions by closing checks and preparing end of shift paperwork.
- Perform opening and closing procedures and side-work duties according to station rotation assignment and established checklist.
- Ensure that tables and side stands are kept stocked, tidy and clean.
- Keep all beverages at least ¾ full (coffee, tea, soda, water, and lemonade).
- Breakdown trays of soiled dishes and linen in the dishroom according to established standards.
- Answer the telephone according to standards.
- Consistently upsell food, beverage and promotional items to guests.
- Be familiar with fire extinguishers, locations and know how to use them.
- Receive and deliver food and beverage orders and collect payment.
- Ensure overall guest satisfaction.
- Must perform other duties as directed/assigned by supervisor/management.
Related Jobs
Frequently asked questions
Serving at a Luau in Lahaina offers a unique blend of cultural engagement and hospitality focused on traditional Hawaiian experiences. Unlike standard server jobs, it requires familiarity with luau customs, guest interaction in a festive environment, and often involves casual yet polished service tailored to vacationers seeking authentic island vibes.
Success hinges on attentive communication, multitasking, and deep knowledge of local menus and beverage offerings. Highgate values servers who can anticipate guest needs, maintain a warm demeanor, and seamlessly handle POS systems while delivering exceptional, culturally attuned service in a casual setting.
Absolutely, starting as a Luau Server can lead to roles like shift supervisor, banquet coordinator, or even management within Highgate’s diverse portfolio. Knowledge of Hawaiian hospitality and guest relations can open pathways into specialized event planning or broader hotel operations in the region.
The typical hourly wage ranges from $15 to $20, often supplemented by tips due to Lahaina's strong tourist traffic. This rate aligns well with local hospitality standards, reflecting both the casual nature and cultural uniqueness of Luau server roles in Hawaii’s competitive service market.
Highgate emphasizes culturally relevant training that integrates traditional Hawaiian guest service customs alongside hospitality fundamentals. This includes familiarization with luau-specific menus, guest interaction protocols, and the use of modern POS systems tailored to enhance the casual yet immersive dining experience.
Highgate merges innovation with respect for Hawaiian traditions, so servers are expected to balance warm, authentic guest interactions with efficient service. The company fosters a team-oriented environment encouraging initiative, cultural sensitivity, and attention to detail, setting it apart from conventional casual dining positions.
Lahaina’s vibrant tourism industry drives steady demand for skilled servers, but the competition is high due to the city’s appeal as a desirable workplace with cultural significance. Candidates with hospitality experience and local knowledge often have an advantage in securing positions at renowned companies like Highgate.
Lahaina’s compact layout generally facilitates short commutes, but traffic can increase during peak tourist seasons. Many servers rely on local shuttles, biking, or carpooling since parking near popular luau venues may be limited, making time management crucial for punctual shifts.
Local customs shape everything from greeting styles to meal pacing, requiring servers to embrace aloha spirit through respectful, warm interactions. Understanding cultural nuances enhances guest satisfaction and aligns with community expectations, setting Lahaina servers apart from other tourist destinations.
While experience with POS systems is advantageous, Highgate offers comprehensive on-the-job training tailored to their specific technology. This ensures servers can efficiently manage orders, payments, and closing procedures, even if new to such systems, supporting smooth operational flow.