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 protocols
- Oversee food inventories, receiving, and quality verification of deliveries
- Develop and implement cleaning and equipment maintenance schedules
- Manage kitchen inventory, food costs, and waste reduction initiatives
- Ensure proper placement and tracking of all food and supply orders
- Coordinate with vendors and maintain relationships with local suppliers
- Execute effective time management and delegation of responsibilities
Required Qualifications
- Minimum 4 years of professional kitchen experience + 2 years in culinary management
- Proven leadership experience, with references provided
- Strong knowledge of Mediterranean and California coastal cuisines
- Experience with baking / pastry preferred
- Current ServSafe certification, Destiny Coast is willing to help attain
- Excellent organizational and team management skills
- Demonstrated ability to adapt to changing circumstances while maintaining quality
Schedule and Availability
- Must demonstrate scheduling flexibility
- Weekend and holiday availability required
- Ability to work varying shifts as business needs dictate
- Available for special events and seasonal promotions
Standards of Conduct
Destiny Coast maintains high professional standards for all team members:
- Punctuality and consistent attendance are mandatory
- Positive attitude and professional demeanor required
- Progressive disciplinary policy includes:
- Verbal Warning
- Written Warning
- Termination
- Conduct that interferes with or adversely affects business operations may result in immediate disciplinary action
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand for extended periods
- Capable of lifting and carrying up to 50 pounds
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with varying temperatures
- Manual dexterity to operate kitchen equipment safely and efficiently
What We Offer
- Competitive salary commensurate with experience
- Comprehensive benefits package
- Professional development opportunities
- Creative freedom to contribute to menu development
- Work-life balance in beautiful La Jolla, California
Our Commitment
Destiny Coast is committed to providing exceptional dining experiences through:
- Using only the freshest, highest-quality ingredients
- Maintaining flexibility to accommodate special requests
- Creating comfortable and enjoyable dining experiences
- Fostering an inclusive, diverse workplace
- Supporting professional growth and development
We 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.
To apply, please submit your resume, cover letter, and portfolio of signature dishes to [careers@destinycoast.com].
Join us in our mission to create extraordinary dining experiences that celebrate the bounty of land and sea while honoring our commitment to sustainability and culinary excellence.