Executive Chef - Newark, DE

Executive Chef Lefty's Alley & Eats is unique destination in Delaware, bringing people together through interactive entertainment and unexpectedly high-quality food and beverages. We will be opening our new location at the Grove in Newark, DE in June 2026. We are currently in search of an Executive Chef to oversee all kitchen operations within our 55,000 square foot venue. This position will begin approximately April 13, 2026 Position Summary Position Summary The Executive Chef serves as the culinary leader and figurehead of the kitchen and food & beverage operations at Lefty's Alley & Eats. This role is responsible for upholding and advancing the company's culinary standards while leading, training, and inspiring a high-performing kitchen team. The Executive Chef oversees all kitchen operations, including food purchasing, preparation, quality control, sanitation, cost management, staff development, and compliance with health and safety regulations. This position plays a key leadership role in fostering a positive, professional culture that promotes accountability, teamwork, confidence, and morale. Key Responsibilities Ensure all food is consistently prepared and presented in accordance with established recipes, portioning, cooking, and plating standards. Maintain compliance with all health, safety, sanitation, energy management, and preventive maintenance standards. Implement and enforce standard operating procedures related to food quality, cost control, and revenue management. Oversee all aspects of kitchen staff management, including recruiting, interviewing, hiring, training, performance evaluation, discipline, and termination as needed. Conduct onboarding and orientation for new kitchen team members, ensuring understanding of company policies and departmental procedures. Develop seasonal and calendar-driven menus that provide a fresh and engaging culinary experience throughout the year. Ensure full compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws related to labor, food safety, sanitation, and alcoholic beverages. Develop, implement, and maintain policies and procedures for the food and beverage departments. Manage purchasing, receiving, and storage of all food and supplies to ensure proper quality, quantity, and cost control. Evaluate and introduce new culinary techniques and presentations to enhance guest satisfaction while managing food costs. Collaborate daily with the General Manager to achieve the highest level of guest satisfaction at optimal cost. Address guest feedback and complaints promptly and professionally, recommending or implementing corrective actions as needed. Maintain the cleanliness, organization, and overall condition of all kitchen equipment and food & beverage facilities. Enforce employee appearance and dress code standards. Review and approve product invoices and submit them to accounting in a timely manner. Oversee physical inventory counts and provide accurate reporting to the accounting department. Partner with other managers to ensure proper reconciliation of point-of-sale systems and revenues. Audit and approve weekly payroll. Collaborate with management to plan and execute special menus, promotions, and food & beverage offerings. Work closely with group sales and event managers to ensure exceptional execution and client satisfaction for events and parties. Daily Operational Duties Oversee daily opening and closing procedures for the restaurant. Ensure consistent station set-up and readiness for each service. Partner with management to promote upselling of new menu items and specials. Manage staff scheduling and timekeeping. Report on maintenance and equipment needs to the General Manager. Support operations during high-volume or emergency situations as needed. Maintain organization, cleanliness, and compliance across all food and beverage storage areas. Qualifications & Skills The Executive Chef must demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of food and beverage operations, a strong sense of hospitality, and effective leadership skills. This role requires excellent communication, organizational, and collaboration abilities, along with experience coordinating special events from both back-of-house and front-of-house perspectives. The Executive Chef will be responsible for planning and executing special event culinary stations, developing new concepts, contributing to menu innovation, and assisting with event layouts and flow. Equal Opportunity Employer Lefty's Alley & Eats is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing a workplace free from discrimination based on race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, disability, pregnancy, sexual orientation, or any other protected status under applicable law. This policy applies to all aspects of employment, including hiring, promotion, discipline, and termination. #J-18808-Ljbffr Mary Dickson