Executive Chef| Authentic Italian | Miami, FL
About the Company
Our client is preparing to launch a highly anticipated Italian dining destination in Miami. Inspired by the charm and hospitality of Capri and Positano, the restaurant will combine elevated Italian cuisine, warm service, and a lively atmosphere anchored by a piano bar and neighborhood energy.
About the Role
We are seeking an Executive Chef to lead all culinary operations for this exciting opening. The ideal candidate is a hands-on culinary leader with a strong background in Italian cuisine, high-volume execution, and team development.
This role will be responsible for building and leading the kitchen team, establishing systems and standards, driving financial performance, and delivering a consistently exceptional guest experience. The Executive Chef will play a key role in shaping the restaurant’s culinary identity while partnering closely with ownership and operational leadership during the opening process and beyond.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee all culinary operations across lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch service
- Develop and execute menus rooted in authentic Italian cuisine with elevated presentation
- Lead, train, mentor, and develop BOH leadership and culinary teams
- Maintain consistency, quality, and execution standards across all menu offerings
- Manage food costs, labor costs, inventory, purchasing, and overall kitchen financial performance
- Ensure compliance with all health, safety, sanitation, and food handling standards
- Collaborate closely with front-of-house leadership to deliver an exceptional guest experience
- Support all pre-opening initiatives including hiring, training, kitchen setup, and operational systems implementation
- Maintain a visible and active presence in the kitchen during service
- Foster a culture of accountability, teamwork, and hospitality
Qualifications
- Minimum 8 years of Executive Chef experience in upscale, high-volume, or fine dining restaurants
- Strong background in Italian cuisine required
- Proven success leading high-volume culinary operations
- Experience developing and managing large culinary teams
- Strong understanding of food cost management, labor controls, purchasing, and inventory systems
- Excellent leadership, organizational, and communication skills
- Pastry experience is a strong plus
- New restaurant opening experience preferred
- Hands-on leadership style with a passion for coaching and team development
Compensation & Benefits
- Base salary up to $150,000
- Performance-based bonus opportunity
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Creative input and menu ownership
- Relocation assistance may be considered
- Opportunity to help launch and shape one of Miami’s most exciting new Italian dining destinations