Executive Chef

Café Stella is seeking an exceptionally talented Chef de Cuisine to lead our kitchen and evolve a modern French bistronomy program, offering refined, technique-driven cuisine in a convivial neighborhood setting. The ideal candidate combines classical French training with creative, contemporary sensibilities, values craft and seasonality, and thrives in a collaborative environment.

Responsibilities

Menu Development and Execution
• Collaborate with ownership on a seasonal, market-driven French menu
• Balance classical preparations such as sauces, stocks, pâtés, and charcuterie with modern technique
• Lead daily tastings, production, and quality control across all stations

Culinary Technique and Production Oversight
• Execute and teach techniques in sauté, sous-vide, butchery, fish fabrication, and emulsions
• Manage mise en place systems for consistency and speed
• Maintain discipline in temperature, texture, timing, and presentation

Team Leadership
• Recruit, train, and mentor kitchen staff in French fundamentals and contemporary methods
• Foster a respectful and inspired kitchen culture focused on growth and precision
• Conduct pre-service briefings and post-service reviews to maintain standards

Operational and Financial Management
• Oversee ordering, inventory, and vendor relationships with a focus on quality sourcing
• Manage food and labor cost targets and control waste
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and HACCP protocols

Qualifications

• Five or more years of experience in professional French cuisine, including two years in a leadership role
• Mastery of classical French technique and modern gastronomy methods such as sous-vide, fermentation, and precision cooking
• Proven ability to lead, motivate, and develop a kitchen team
• Strong organizational habits and high standards of cleanliness
• Michelin-level or bistronomy experience is a plus

Compensation and Schedule

• Competitive salary based on experience
• Full-time schedule including evenings and weekends
• Paid time off and performance bonus potential
• Dining privileges
• Immediate start, flexible for the right candidate

To Apply

Please submit the following
• Resume
• Brief cover letter describing your culinary philosophy and leadership approach
• Optional portfolio of plated dishes or sample menus

Equal Opportunity Employment

Café Stella is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by law. We value diversity and are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace.