Head Chef

Location : Bushwick, Brooklyn, NY

Nowon is a Korean-American gastropub known for bold flavors, creative energy, and a lively, community-driven dining experience. We are seeking a Head Chef to lead our Bushwick location, uphold high culinary standards, and help guide the restaurant toward continued growth and recognition.

The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader who thrives in a fast-paced kitchen, is detail-oriented, and can balance creativity with consistency. We are looking for someone who shares our goal of delivering an outstanding guest experience while building and motivating a strong back-of-house team.

Responsibilities

Leadership & Management

Oversee all back-of-house operations, ensuring high standards of food quality, consistency, and presentation.

Lead, train, and develop kitchen staff, fostering a culture of accountability, respect, and growth.

Delegate effectively, set clear expectations, and maintain strong communication across BOH and FOH teams.

Culinary Execution & Standards

Manage daily service with attention to speed, precision, and consistency.

Maintain and elevate kitchen standards, ensuring compliance with DOH, sanitation, and safety regulations.

Partner with ownership and Chef Jae Lee on menu development, R&D dishes, and seasonal updates.

Uphold standards to position Nowon Bushwick for critical recognition (Bib Gourmand level quality).

Operations & Administration

Manage inventory, ordering, and vendor relationships while controlling food costs and minimizing waste.

Create and maintain prep lists, production schedules, and systems for efficiency.

Ensure equipment and facilities are maintained and in good working order.

Collaborate with FOH managers to align on service standards and guest experience.

Culture & Growth

Lead by example with professionalism, discipline, and passion.

Support and mentor team members, creating opportunities for advancement.

Contribute to the overall growth of Nowon as we expand and strengthen our brand.