Executive Chef - Scratch Kitchen / French Bistro (Charlotte NC)

We are seeking a hands-on Executive Chef in Charlotte, NC to direct culinary operations for our high-volume, scratch kitchen. Specializing in refined, French-inspired cuisine, our restaurant delivers exceptional dining experiences backed by culinary rigor and operational discipline.

If you are a proven culinary leader with deep experience in upscale dining, classical French techniques, and kitchen financials, we want to hear from you.

️‍Qualifications

• Experience: 3+ years as Executive Chef or Executive Sous Chef in upscale casual or fine dining.
• Core Focus: High-volume scratch kitchen, French culinary technique, seasonal menu design.
• Financial & Leadership Skills: Proven track record in food cost control, labor management, and team retention.
• Key Advantage: Background in French brasserie/bistro concepts or foundational knowledge of bakery/pastry operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Culinary Leadership: Oversee daily kitchen operations, maintaining consistent preparation, presentation, and quality standards across all stations.
• Menu & Concept Development: Collaborate on seasonal menu updates, specials, and recipe development rooted in classical French cuisine.
• Financial & Inventory Management: Drive profitability through rigorous food and labor cost management, inventory controls, vendor negotiations, and waste reduction.
• Team Mentorship & Culture: Build and retain a high-performing culinary team through hands-on coaching, clear performance expectations, and ongoing training.
• Kitchen Operations & Sanitation: Enforce food safety practices, sanitation standards, kitchen maintenance, and regulatory compliance.

What We Offer

• Competitive base salary + performance-based bonus structure.
• Comprehensive benefits package (Health, Dental, Vision).
• Paid time off (PTO) and career growth opportunities.
• Creative autonomy within a well-funded, dynamic restaurant group.

For immediate consideration, apply with a updated resume today!

The Restaurant Zone is a leading hospitality recruitment agency specializing in connecting top-tier talent with restaurants, hotels, and hospitality groups across the United States. We partner with growing brands and established operators to deliver high-quality candidates for management, executive, and specialized roles. Our team combines industry expertise, a vast candidate network, and a results-driven approach to help businesses build strong, reliable teams. At The Restaurant Zone, we focus on speed, quality, and long-term fit—ensuring both clients and candidates succeed.