Head Chef

About Us: Rafael Upper East Side

We are a vibrant and popular Mediterranean restaurant located in the heart of Lexington on the Upper East Side. Known for our authentic flavors, fresh ingredients, and warm hospitality, we have become a favorite dining destination in the area. As we continue to grow, we are seeking a talented and experienced Chef to lead our culinary team and ensure the highest quality standards in our kitchen.

**Responsibilities**:
As a hands-on Chef in our NYC restaurant, your responsibilities include back-of-house staffing, organization, and quality control to ensure smooth kitchen operations.
- Help Create and Implement and Opening Kitchen Procedure
- Oversee all kitchen operations, including food preparation, cooking, and plating, while maintaining the highest standards of taste, presentation, and quality.
- Manage and mentor the kitchen staff, providing guidance, training, and performance evaluations to foster a cohesive and efficient team.
- Collaborate with the Executive Chef to develop and refine menu items, incorporating authentic Mediterranean flavors and innovative culinary techniques.
- Ensure proper inventory management, including ordering, receiving, and controlling food and supplies to minimize waste and maintain cost-effectiveness.
- Maintain a clean and organized kitchen, following all health and safety regulations to provide a safe working environment for the team.
- Monitor and maintain kitchen equipment, coordinating repairs and maintenance as necessary to ensure uninterrupted operations.
- Stay up-to-date with culinary trends and new ingredients, bringing creativity and innovation to our menu offerings.
- Collaborate with front-of-house staff to ensure seamless coordination between the kitchen and dining areas, providing exceptional guest experiences.
- Work closely with the management team to address any operational challenges and implement effective solutions.
- Schedule and manage kitchen staff shifts to ensure appropriate coverage and efficient workflow.

**Requirements**:

- Proven experience as a Chef or in a similar leadership role in a busy restaurant environment, preferably with Mediterranean cuisine.
- Strong culinary skills and a passion for Mediterranean flavors, ingredients, and techniques.
- Excellent leadership and team management abilities, with the capacity to inspire and motivate a diverse kitchen staff.
- Strong organizational and multitasking skills, with meticulous attention to detail.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively collaborate with the team, management, and front-of-house staff.
- Extensive knowledge of food safety and sanitation regulations.
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment while maintaining a positive attitude.
- Flexibility to work a 5-day schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
- Minimum 3 years of experience in a leadership role in a busy restaurant environment.

We Offer:

- Competitive salary of $95,000 - $105,000 per year, commensurate with experience and qualifications.
- Comprehensive benefits and a supportive work environment that encourages professional growth and development.

To Apply:
Pay: $95,000.00 - $105,000.00 per year

**Benefits**:

- Health insurance
- Paid time off

Experience level:

- 3 years

Pay rate:

- Yearly pay

Shift:

- Evening shift
- Morning shift

Weekly day range:

- Monday to Friday
- Rotating weekends
- Weekends as needed

Ability to Relocate:

- Upper East Side, NY: Relocate before starting work (required)

Work Location: In person