Getting Started
How does HostStand.ai work?
HostStand.ai connects to your restaurant’s phone line and reservation platform. When a guest calls, the AI host greets them, answers questions, and books or updates reservations just like your front-of-house team would.
What is a HostStand.ai number?
Each restaurant gets its own HostStand.ai number, which connects the AI host to your guests. You can pick a local area code to keep your brand consistent. Many restaurants use this number alongside their main line to handle overflow or after-hours calls.
Can I keep my existing number?
Yes. You can keep your current number and use call forwarding so guests never notice a change. Calls can forward automatically when the line is busy, unanswered, or after a certain number of rings.
How much control do I have over when the AI answers?
You decide. HostStand.ai can pick up immediately, act as overflow support, or wait a few rings before answering. You can adjust this “human answer window” anytime in your dashboard.
Do I need to install anything?
No software, no new hardware. HostStand.ai runs entirely in the cloud and connects to your existing phone and reservation systems in minutes.
Can I set it up myself?
Yes. Setup is simple and guided. We’ll walk you through linking your number, adding your details, and customizing responses. Most restaurants are live the same day.
Does it replace my staff?
No. HostStand.ai supports your team by handling routine calls so they can focus on guests in the dining room. Think of it as your extra host who never takes a break.
Features and Capabilities
Can the AI handle complex conversations?
Yes. It recognizes natural language and understands context, so when a guest says “Can I get a table for two tomorrow at 7?” or “Do you have a gluten-free menu?” it responds accurately and conversationally.
Does it integrate with my reservation platform?
HostStand.ai integrates with popular systems like OpenTable, Resy, and SevenRooms. If you use a custom system, we can usually connect through API.
Can it answer questions about my restaurant?
Yes. During setup, you’ll teach it your menu, hours, directions, and any other key information. From then on, it responds with your exact details.
Does it handle calls outside business hours?
Absolutely. HostStand.ai is available 24/7 so guests can make or change reservations any time, even when your restaurant is closed.
What happens if the AI doesn’t understand a question?
If a caller asks something HostStand.ai can’t answer, it follows your custom operator workflow. You can choose whether it transfers the call to your host stand, takes a message, or schedules a callback. You’ll also be notified so the AI can be updated for next time.
Customization
Can I choose the AI’s voice and tone?
Yes. You can pick from several natural-sounding voices and choose a tone that fits your restaurant’s personality, from casual and friendly to fine-dining professional.
Can I update responses later?
You can change or add details anytime. Updating your hours, policies, or menu is as simple as editing your restaurant profile.
Can I review what guests said?
Yes. Every call is logged in your dashboard with summaries and transcripts so you can review activity and improve guest experience.
Can I customize what the AI says?
Yes. You have complete control over what your AI host says, from the greeting to the goodbye and everything in between. You can edit responses for specific questions, adjust scripts, and personalize messages to fit your brand.
Pricing and Support
How much does it cost?
Plans start at $199 per month for smaller restaurants, with higher tiers for larger call volumes or multi-location groups. Full details are available on the Pricing page.
Do you offer a free trial or demo?
We offer a live demo to show you exactly how HostStand.ai works before you sign up.
Is there a contract?
No long-term commitments. You can pause or cancel anytime.
What kind of support do you offer?
Our team provides live onboarding and ongoing support. You’ll always have a person available if you need help.
Security and Reliability
Is guest data secure?
Yes. HostStand.ai is built with enterprise-grade security and privacy standards. All call data is encrypted and stored securely.
What happens if there’s an outage or system issue?
Our system is cloud-based with redundant backups, so downtime is rare. In the event of an issue, your calls automatically reroute to a backup line or voicemail until service resumes.
How will my guests respond to speaking with AI?
Most guests appreciate quick, friendly service. HostStand.ai uses natural speech, pacing, and tone to make conversations feel personal and helpful. Guests spend less time waiting and more time booking tables.
What makes HostStand.ai different from other AI phone assistants?
HostStand.ai was built specifically for restaurants and hospitality groups. It understands the language of reservations, guest service, and restaurant operations. It’s not just an answering system, it’s an extension of your front-of-house team.