Budgeting, Coaching, Communication Skills, Cook Dishes, Cost Control, Establish Priorities, Financial Management, Food and Beverage Industry, Health Maintenance, Health Plan, Inventory Costs, Leadership, Music, Operations Management, Organizational Skills, Philosophy, Profit & Loss, Regulations, Regulatory Compliance, Restaurant, Safety Standards, Safety/Work Safety, Sanitation, Team Building, Team Lead/Manager
LOCATION
Washington, DC
POSTED
30+ days ago
Chef de Cuisine
Location: Washington, DC (Dupont Circle)
About the Opportunity
Our client has a charming restaurant & bar offering Washingtonians and travelers an elevated indoor and outdoor dining experience. Rooted in a story of community and belonging, the concept is designed to make every guest feel like a resident from the moment they walk in.
The restaurant delivers a casual-chic culinary and cocktail experience with a focus on high-quality, seasonal ingredients and a less is more philosophy. A five-time Michelin Bib Gourmand recipient, our client offers a multi-sensory dining experienceengaging guests through thoughtfully curated food, beverage, music, and ambiance.
Position Overview
Our client is seeking a passionate and highly driven Chef de Cuisine to lead day-to-day kitchen operations and help further elevate a renowned, chef-driven culinary program.
This individual will play a key leadership role in maintaining Michelin Bib Gourmand standards while contributing to a creative, seasonal, and guest-focused dining experience. The ideal candidate is both operationally strong and creatively inspired, with a commitment to quality, consistency, and team development.
Key Responsibilities
Culinary Leadership & Execution
Lead all day-to-day kitchen operations with a hands-on, service-driven approach
Ensure consistency, precision, and quality across all dishes and services
Execute and refine a seasonal, ingredient-driven menu
Collaborate on new menu items, specials, and continuous culinary evolution
Maintain a clean, organized, and high-performing kitchen environment
Team Leadership & Culture
Recruit, train, and develop a cohesive back-of-house team
Foster a professional, accountable, and growth-oriented kitchen culture
Lead by example with strong communication and high standards
Provide coaching, feedback, and ongoing performance development
Operational & Financial Management
Manage food cost, inventory, ordering, and waste control
Partner with leadership on budgeting and profitability initiatives
Oversee scheduling and labor management to ensure efficiency
Implement systems and processes to support consistent execution
Standards & Compliance
Maintain all health, safety, and sanitation standards in accordance with DC regulations
Ensure proper food handling, storage, and kitchen organization
Uphold cleanliness and operational excellence across all BOH areas
Qualifications
3+ years of experience as a Chef de Cuisine or Senior Sous Chef
Experience in chef-driven, upscale casual, or Bib Gourmand-level kitchens preferred
Strong understanding of seasonal cooking and ingredient-driven menus
Proven leadership and team development skills
Experience managing food cost, inventory, and kitchen operations
Ability to perform in a fast-paced, high-standard environment
What Were Looking For
A thoughtful, creative chef who values simplicity and quality
A leader committed to team development and positive kitchen culture
A professional who delivers a consistent, memorable guest experience
Someone who appreciates the details that elevate the full dining experience
Compensation & Benefits
Competitive base salary (commensurate with experience)
Performance-based bonus potential
Health benefits (if applicable)
Paid time off
Dining perks and team incentives
Why This Opportunity
This is a unique opportunity to join a Michelin-recognized, high-performing concept with a strong identity and loyal following. Youll play a key role in shaping both the culinary program and team culture while contributing to a dining experience that prioritizes quality, creativity, and hospitality.