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 experience—engaging 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 We’re 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. You’ll 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.