Chef

The Opportunity

We’re looking for a chef-driven, hands-on Executive Chef who wants real ownership of a tight menu, strong standards, and a kitchen culture built on consistency, cleanliness, and craft. You’ll lead service, build systems, train a team, and drive food/labor performance—without losing what matters most: the food on the plate.

What You’ll Own Food, Execution & Standards

• Lead daily BOH operations and service execution

• Supervise prep, cooking technique, and plating to maintain consistent, high-quality dishes

• Create a calm, organized line and prep environment with clear expectations

Menu & Program Development

• Drive seasonal menu changes, monthly wine dinners, and private event menus

• Own recipes, plating costs, and order guides

• Build BOH/FOH training materials (including allergy awareness)

Leadership & Kitchen Culture

• Hire, train, and develop BOH talent

• Enforce and elevate company policies and standards—through coaching and accountability

Cleanliness & Compliance (Non-Negotiable)

• Maintain clean, organized walk-ins, line coolers, and storage areas

• Ensure labeling/dating and health code compliance

• Maintain City of Chicago Certified Foodservice Manager & Allergy certifications

Cost Control (Smart, Not Stingy)

• Schedule and manage labor

• Manage purchasing and protect margins

• Lead weekly inventory and keep actual cost under 26% while minimizing theoretical vs actual variance

• Weekly controllables review + monthly P&L review

What We’re Looking For

• 2+ years kitchen management experience

• Strong high-volume line, prep, and expo skills

• Comfortable with systems: Toast POS, Sling scheduling, XtraChef inventory; Microsoft Office proficiency- must have strong Microsoft Excel skillset

• A chef who leads from the line, trains by example, and takes pride in a clean, disciplined kitchen

Compensation & Benefits

Pay (performance-based increases): $70k-$75k.

Benefits:

• 1 week paid vacation after 6 months

• 2 weeks paid vacation after 1 year

• Company-subsidized health, vision & dental

• Bonus program based on financial cost control