Head Chef

Location : Pacific Grove, CA 93950 Job Type : Full-Time Salary : $72,000 annually Benefits : Vacation Leave + Sick Leave About the Role Wild Fish Restaurant, a farm-to-table, sustainable seafood restaurant in Pacific Grove, CA, is seeking an experienced Head Chef to lead our back-of-house operations. This is a hands-on kitchen leadership position where you’ll not only direct the culinary team, but you’ll also work alongside them in a fast-paced, high-volume kitchen environment. We are looking for a chef who is passionate about seafood preparation, coastal cuisine, and locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. Our restaurant is known for rustic yet elevated dishes, imaginative menus, and a strong commitment to gluten-free dining and sustainability. Key Responsibilities Lead all back-of-house operations including kitchen management, food preparation, and culinary execution Oversee seafood preparation and cooking techniques with a focus on fresh, local, and sustainable fish Develop and test recipes, seasonal menus, and weekly specials highlighting local California ingredients Manage ordering, vendor relationships, and inventory control to ensure cost-effective and high-quality operations Create and maintain cleaning, sanitation, and kitchen maintenance schedules in compliance with health and safety standards Train, mentor, and motivate culinary staff to maintain high standards of food quality, plating, and consistency Collaborate with ownership on menu planning for lunch, dinner, and bar service, balancing casual and fine dining offerings Uphold the restaurant’s culinary vision : rustic, imaginative, regionally inspired, and gluten-free friendly Qualifications Proven experience as a Head Chef or Sous Chef in a seafood restaurant, fine dining, or farm-to-table kitchen Expertise in fish and shellfish preparation, including grilling, roasting, sautéing, and butchery Strong knowledge of seasonal California produce and sustainable sourcing practices Leadership experience in kitchen management, staff training, and scheduling Familiarity with inventory control, ordering systems, and food cost management Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-pressure kitchen environment while maintaining attention to detail Creativity and passion for menu development, coastal cuisine, and gluten-free cooking What We Offer Competitive salary of $72,000 annually Full-Time position with Vacation Leave and Sick Leave Opportunity to showcase your culinary creativity in a respected Pacific Grove coastal restaurant Work with a supportive team committed to quality, sustainability, and guest satisfaction About Wild Fish Restaurant Wild Fish Restaurant is a seafood-focused, farm-to-table restaurant in Pacific Grove, CA, dedicated to serving locally sourced, sustainable ingredients. Our menus reflect the bounty of the California coast, featuring fresh fish, regional produce, and creative gluten-free options. With a style that is both rustic and elevated, our kitchen celebrates imaginative, seasonal cuisine that highlights the flavors of the Monterey Bay region. Equal Opportunity Employer Wild Fish Restaurant is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Employment Type : Full Time Years Experience : 3 - 5 years Salary : $72,000 Annual Bonus / Commission : Yes