Kitchen Manager

Overview

Green Basil Street is a brand-new fast-casual Thai restaurant opening in Fall 2025 in downtown Chicago. It’s inspired by our sister restaurant, Green Basil in Vernon Hills—a longtime favorite in the Chicago suburbs. Our goal is simple : bring bold, crave-able Thai flavors to the Loop in a way that’s fresh, fast, and fun. Think wok-fired dishes, cold Thai tea, and a welcoming vibe where everyone feels like a regular.

We’re looking for a Chef / Kitchen Manager who’s excited to grow with us. This is a unique chance to get in early and help shape what Green Basil Street becomes—not just in the kitchen, but as a brand. If you love being part of a supportive team, enjoy working in a high-energy environment, and want to grow into a leadership role as we expand, we’d love to meet you.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily kitchen operations, including prep, cooking, plating, and sanitation.
• Maintain high food quality, consistency, and speed for fast-casual service.
• Hire, train, schedule, and supervise kitchen staff.
• Step in to cook on the line during peak hours when needed.
• Control food and labor costs through smart scheduling, portioning, and inventory practices
• Monitor stock levels and place orders to avoid shortages or waste.
• Ensure all food handling and kitchen operations meet health and safety standards.
• Work closely with the front-of-house to ensure smooth service and great guest experiences.
• Conduct performance reviews and encourage growth within the team.

Requirements

Positive attitude, strong work ethic, and ability to stay calm under pressure.

2+ years of experience in a kitchen leadership role (Head Chef or Sous Chef); Thai or Asian cuisine experience is a plus but not required.

Strong cooking skills and a willingness to jump on the line in a fast-paced environment.

Solid understanding of kitchen operations, including inventory control and cost management.

Confident communicator with the ability to lead and motivate a diverse team.

Experience managing shifts and labor to keep operations smooth and efficient.

Food safety certification required (or must be able to obtain before start date).