Executive Chef

Local Kitchen + Wine Bar, the second location from Maire Byrne of Thyme Cafe & Market is an upscale casual dining experience in Santa Monica that pairs seasonal plates with handcrafted Neapolitan style wood fired pizza alongside a full bar & boutique wine list.

With a strong neighborhood presence & diverse, loyal clientele, we are seeking a chef that can be a focused leader & drive the culinary program, culture & team to further success.

You will experience a high level of autonomy with both creatively and with operations. This is an exceptional opportunity to highlight your culinary abilities and stand out in a highly competitive area.

Job Overview

We are seeking a highly skilled & passionate Executive Chef to lead our culinary team and oversee all aspects of food production in our establishment.

The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in food service, culinary arts, catering / events with a proven ability to create exceptional dining experiences.

As the Executive Chef, you will be responsible for menu development, kitchen management, and ensuring the highest standards of food quality and presentation.

Responsibilities

• Develop and design innovative menus that reflect current culinary trends while meeting customer preferences.
• Oversee daily kitchen operations, ensuring efficient food production and adherence to health and safety regulations.
• Manage kitchen staff, including hiring, training, and supervising team members to foster a collaborative environment.
• Coordinate catering services for events and banquets, ensuring timely delivery and exceptional service.
• Monitor inventory levels, order supplies as needed and manage food costs & labor to maintain profitability.
• Implement quality control measures to ensure consistency in food preparation and presentation.
• Collaborate with front-of-house staff to ensure seamless service during busy shifts.
• Provide hands-on assistance during peak hours to support the kitchen team as needed.

Experience

• Proven experience as an Executive Chef or similar role within the culinary industry.
• Strong knowledge of various cooking techniques, cuisines, and food presentation styles.
• Experience in catering services and managing banquet operations is highly desirable.
• Demonstrated ability in team management and shift management within a fast-paced kitchen environment.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to lead by example and inspire team members.
• A culinary degree or equivalent certification is preferred but not mandatory; extensive experience may substitute for formal education.

Join our dynamic team where your culinary creativity can shine while leading a dedicated group of professionals!