Job Description
We are seeking a talented and passionate Executive Chef to lead our culinary team at The Gilded Fork, an award-winning fine dining establishment in downtown Austin. This is an exciting opportunity to showcase your creativity while overseeing all kitchen operations and maintaining our stellar reputation for culinary excellence.
As Executive Chef, you will be the driving force behind our kitchen, crafting seasonal menus that celebrate locally-sourced ingredients and innovative flavor profiles. Join our dynamic team and help us continue to deliver memorable dining experiences that keep guests coming back.
Responsibilities
- Design and execute seasonal menus featuring locally-sourced and sustainable ingredients
- Lead all kitchen operations including food preparation, quality control, and plating standards
- Manage, train, and inspire a team of sous chefs, line cooks, and kitchen staff
- Ensure strict adherence to food safety, sanitation, and OSHA standards
- Control food costs, labor expenses, and inventory management to meet budget targets
- Collaborate with ownership and management on menu development and business strategy
- Create signature dishes that align with the restaurant's upscale vision and brand identity
Qualifications
- 5+ years of culinary experience in fine dining or high-end restaurant environments
- Proven track record managing a professional kitchen team of 15+ staff members
- Strong command of modern culinary techniques and classical cooking methods
- Extensive knowledge of food costing, menu engineering, and inventory management
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-pressure kitchen environment
- Exceptional organizational, leadership, and communication skills
- ServSafe Manager Certification or equivalent required
- Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed