Full-Time Lead Chef in Bel-Air (and Bay Area)
We are seeking an experienced and highly skilled Head Chef to lead the dining program for a private family based in Bel-Air, CA. The ideal candidate will be responsible for managing the culinary operations of the household, including meal planning, cooking, managing kitchen staff, and overseeing all dining events. This is an opportunity for a creative, organized, and highly experienced chef to curate an exceptional culinary experience for a private family.
This position requires travel to secondary residences in the Bay Area and other locations as needed. The Head Chef will be responsible for all aspects of meal preparation, including catering to dietary and health needs, event planning, inventory management, and ensuring the highest standards of food quality and service.
Key Responsibilities:
Lead the Dining Program: Oversee all daily meal preparations, private dinner parties, events, and family gatherings, ensuring exceptional food quality and presentation at all times.
Team Management: Supervise and manage a team of two other chefs and kitchen staff, including a kitchen helper and external contract servers, bartenders, and other staff as needed.
Menu Planning: Design and execute personalized menus based on family preferences, dietary restrictions, health needs, and seasonal ingredients.
Focus on traditional Asian comfort foods (Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean) and other international cuisines, including Italian, Mexican, and healthy Californian dishes.
Event Catering: Plan, organize, and execute intimate events, large gatherings, and themed dinners, providing a tailored dining experience for the family and guests.
Dietary & Health Needs: Ensure that meals meet the health, dietary, and nutritional requirements of the family members, taking into account any food sensitivities or restrictions.
Inventory Management: Maintain and organize kitchen inventory, ensuring that the family’s food needs are met while keeping track of stock levels and ordering supplies as necessary.
High-Standard Food Quality: Prepare dishes with attention to detail, using the best ingredients and techniques to ensure exceptional flavor and presentation.
Travel: Willingness to travel between the family’s main residence in Bel-Air and their other properties in the Bay Area and beyond, as needed.
Key Qualifications:
Proven Experience: 5+ years as a Head Chef or Executive Chef, ideally with experience working in private homes or luxury environments. Experience leading a kitchen team is essential.
Culinary Expertise: Extensive knowledge and proficiency in traditional Asian cuisine, including Chinese, Vietnamese, and Korean comfort food. Experience preparing other global cuisines, including Italian, Mexican, and healthy Californian options.
Team Leadership: Strong leadership and communication skills to manage a team effectively and create a positive working environment.
Creativity & Adaptability: Ability to develop new and exciting menus, while maintaining consistency in execution. Must be adaptable to a variety of family preferences and dietary needs.
Organization & Efficiency: Strong organizational and time management skills to effectively handle multiple tasks and events.
Discretion & Professionalism: Must maintain a high level of professionalism, confidentiality, and discretion at all times.
Attention to Detail: Ability to oversee all aspects of food service, from the quality of ingredients to the final presentation of dishes.
Additional Requirements:
Travel: Willingness to travel between the family’s residences and other locations as required.
Flexibility: Must be able to work flexible hours, including nights and weekends, depending on family needs and events.
Health & Safety: Knowledge of health and safety regulations, food handling procedures, and kitchen sanitation.
Compensation:
Competitive salary, commensurate with experience
Travel and accommodation arrangements for work-related travel
Full benefits package (health insurance, 401k, gym stipend, etc.)