Italian Cuisine Executive Chef

Executive Chef

We are seeking a passionate, experienced, and hands-on Executive Chef to lead the culinary program of a highly regarded Italian restaurant in Philadelphia. This is a key leadership role responsible for overseeing all kitchen operations, culinary execution, team development, and maintaining the highest standards of quality and hospitality.

The ideal candidate is a strong culinary leader with deep expertise in authentic Italian cuisine and the operational experience to manage a high-volume restaurant with significant private dining and event business. This individual should be a humble, collaborative leader who thrives in a team-driven environment and is committed to building something long-term.

Executive Chef Benefits and Compensation

Bonus

Benefits

Paid Time Off

Relocation assistance available for qualified candidates

Opportunity to lead a respected Italian culinary program with significant growth potential

Supportive ownership team focused on long-term success

Executive Chef Requirements & Qualifications

5+ years of progressive culinary leadership experience, including Executive Chef, Chef de Cuisine

Strong background in authentic Italian cuisine; Northern Italian experience highly preferred

Experience working in Italy or significant exposure to Italian culinary traditions strongly preferred

Proven ability to lead and develop a kitchen team of approximately 20 employees

Experience managing high-volume operations with 150+ covers and private events

Strong understanding of:

• Food cost controls
• Labor management
• Inventory systems
• Ordering and kitchen organization
• Menu execution and consistency

Ability to manage multiple simultaneous events, including large-scale buyouts

Strong leadership presence with a calm, organized, and team-oriented approach

Commitment to long-term growth and building a strong culinary culture

Executive Chef Preferred Background & Skills

Experience in acclaimed Italian restaurants or refined culinary environments

Hands-on expertise with:

• Wood-burning grills
• Wood-fired pizza ovens
• Fresh pasta production
• Extruded pasta

Strong knowledge of traditional Italian ingredients, techniques, and regional cuisine

Experience balancing elevated culinary standards with operational efficiency

Ability to collaborate effectively with front-of-house leadership and ownership

Strong mentorship skills with a focus on training and developing kitchen talent

Experience overseeing private dining, events, and large-scale service execution

Low-ego, collaborative leadership style with a focus on team success

Desire to become a long-term culinary leader within the organization