Executive Chef

Populus Hotel

Santa Monica, CA

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JOB DETAILS

SALARY

$120,000–$150,000 Per Year

SKILLS

Beverages, Budgeting, Business Skills, Communication Skills, Cook Dishes, Cost Control, Culinary Operations, Equipment Selection, Financial Literacy, Food and Beverage Industry, Forecasting, Interpersonal Skills, Leadership, Mentoring, Menu Development, Menu Management, Operations Processes, Performing Arts, Profit & Loss, Profit & Loss Management, Restaurant, Revenue Growth, Revenue/Sales Reporting, Seasonal Design, Storytelling, Training/Teaching, Vendor/Supplier Selection

LOCATION

Santa Monica, CA

POSTED

6 days ago

Executive Chef
Premiere Restaurant & Entertainment Venue opening in 2026

Santa Monica, CA

THE VENUE

A one-of-a-kind destination at the intersection of hospitality, performance, and storytelling, we are seeking an EXECUTIVE CHEF to help build thisconcept from the ground up.

Designed for discovery and connection, the venue will blend world-class culinary and beverage programs with nightly artistic expression. Tucked within a landmark compound in Santa Monica, we will welcome guests into a new era of multidisciplinary dining and entertainment rooted in precision, artistry, and hospitality. This project will be unlike any other and will open in late 2026.

Operated by Aparium Hotel Group, this project represents a stand-alone, non-hotel concept for the company. We believe in the power of People, Place, and Character. Leveraging our passion for culinary excellence, extensive restaurant and bar expertise, and proven programming experience, we are looking for extraordinary individuals to help bring this singular venue to life. Hotel experience is not required; however, high-volume independent restaurant experience is preferred.

THE ROLE

The Executive Chef is the hands-on creative and strategic leader of all culinary operations in this standalone restaurant and entertainment venue. Reporting to and working closely with the Managing Director, this individual is responsible for menu planning and ongoing development across multiple dining spaces, each offering a unique approach.

We are launching a chef-driven restaurant in Santa Monica that pushes culinary boundaries through creativity, innovation, and exceptional execution. This role requires a chef who can deliver high-volume service at an elevated standard while also developing seasonal tasting menus designed to surprise and delight guests with each visit. We are seeking someone who has experience with cuisine executed at the highest level and is ready to make a defining impact in one of the nation's most competitive culinary markets.

The Executive Chef will lead from the front, actively inspiring the team through recognition, collaboration, creativity, and innovation. Continuous mentoring and teaching are a must for this position. The Executive Chef is responsible for all aspects of the operation with a focus on culinary excellence, driving operational efficiencies, and controlling costs.

A successful candidate will thrive in balancing the execution of compelling, high-volume culinary offerings while leveraging strong business acumen to ensure the venue achieves market relevance, drives profitability, and becomes an iconic destination and celebrated space for the performing arts. Additionally, this individual will conceptualize and execute innovative seasonal tasting menus that showcase creativity and elevate the guest experience, keeping the organization at the forefront of the culinary scene.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Pre-opening and Opening activities and planning
Strategic Leadership & Execution
Operational Excellence
Guest Experience & Community Engagement
Fostering an engaging and creative environment for associates

WHO YOU ARE

A visionary and influential leader with proven success delivering exceptional dining experiences, managing high-performing teams, and developing world class culinary programs.
Possess a deep knowledge and appreciation for Mediterranean cuisine, techniques and ingredients, with the ability to adapt traditions and bring a modern, bold expression.
Creative, strategic and tactical-you can chart the course and lead the charge.
Culturally connected and community-minded, with an intuitive sense of what drives relevance in today's market.
A magnetic person who inspires teams through work ethic, authenticity, humility, and a clear vision.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE & ATTRIBUTES

Prior opening experience, including menu development, kitchen planning, building and training a team, vendor selection, equipment decision
Minimum of 7 years leadership experience in fine dining, high-volume and/or luxury hospitality. (multi-unit or multi-concept a plus)
A love for the arts, an appreciation for storytelling, and a passion for delivering unforgettable guest experiences.
Strong financial literacy with a proven track record of growing revenue and profitability while building strong, high-performing teams.
Deep knowledge of varying food and beverage operations processes and event execution.
Financial fluency with experience in budgeting, forecasting, and P&L management.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills; able to engage with guests, associates, owners, and media alike.
Familiarity with Santa Monica / Los Angeles food, beverage, and cultural landscapes.

This is more than a job-it's an opportunity to shape a landmark destination.

Are you ready to bring something extraordinary to life?

Salary Range: $120,000 - $150,000 with flexibility for exceptional experience

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, Aparium Hospitality Services celebrates diversity and is committed to creating an equitable and inclusive environment, and sense of belonging for all employees. We do not discriminate and believe every individual should be proud of who they are, where they come from and take pride in who we serve. Aparium is an E-Verify employer.

About the Company

Populus Hotel

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