Chef de Cuisine
Destiny Coast - La Jolla, California
Destiny Coast, La Jolla's premier coastal dining destination, seeks an exceptional Chef de Cuisine to join our culinary team. Under the leadership of visionary Executive Chef Melissa Chickerneo, you'll help craft an unforgettable dining experience that celebrates the intersection of Mediterranean and Southern California cuisines.
Position Overview
The Chef de Cuisine will play a crucial role in maintaining our restaurant's commitment to culinary excellence while embracing our philosophy of sustainable, locally sourced ingredients and artistic presentation. We understand that flexibility is key to success in the culinary world - the ability to adapt to changing circumstances while maintaining exceptional quality is essential to our operation.
Essential Responsibilities
Culinary Leadership
- Collaborate with Executive Chef Melissa Chickerneo to develop and execute seasonal menus
- Lead, mentor, and develop kitchen staff while fostering a positive work environment
- Contribute to menu development that aligns with our coastal cuisine concept
- Demonstrate excellent customer service and exceptional work ethic as an example to staff
Kitchen Operations
Maintain comprehensive food handling standards and safety protocolsOversee food inventories, receiving, and quality verification of deliveriesDevelop and implement cleaning and equipment maintenance schedulesManage kitchen inventory, food costs, and waste reduction initiativesEnsure proper placement and tracking of all food and supply ordersCoordinate with vendors and maintain relationships with local suppliersExecute effective time management and delegation of responsibilitiesRequired Qualifications
Minimum 4 years of professional kitchen experience 2 years in culinary managementProven leadership experience, with references providedStrong knowledge of Mediterranean and California coastal cuisinesExperience with baking / pastry preferredCurrent ServSafe certification, Destiny Coast is willing to help attainExcellent organizational and team management skillsDemonstrated ability to adapt to changing circumstances while maintaining qualitySchedule and Availability
Must demonstrate scheduling flexibilityWeekend and holiday availability requiredAbility to work varying shifts as business needs dictateAvailable for special events and seasonal promotionsStandards of Conduct
Destiny Coast maintains high professional standards for all team members :
Punctuality and consistent attendance are mandatoryPositive attitude and professional demeanor requiredProgressive disciplinary policy includes :Verbal WarningWritten WarningTerminationConduct that interferes with or adversely affects business operations may result in immediate disciplinary actionPhysical Requirements
Ability to stand for extended periodsCapable of lifting and carrying up to 50 poundsAbility to work in a fast-paced environment with varying temperaturesManual dexterity to operate kitchen equipment safely and efficientlyWhat We Offer
Competitive salary commensurate with experienceComprehensive benefits packageProfessional development opportunitiesCreative freedom to contribute to menu developmentWork-life balance in beautiful La Jolla, CaliforniaOur Commitment
Destiny Coast is committed to providing exceptional dining experiences through :
Using only the freshest, highest-quality ingredientsMaintaining flexibility to accommodate special requestsCreating comfortable and enjoyable dining experiencesFostering an inclusive, diverse workplaceSupporting professional growth and developmentWe are proud to be an equal opportunity employer that seeks to recruit, develop, and retain the most talented people from a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where all team members can thrive.
