Executive Chef

Executive Chef Opportunity 

Michael’s Santa Monica 

For more than four decades, Michael’s Santa Monica has defined the spirit of California cuisine — market-driven, artful, ingredient-focused, and deeply rooted in hospitality. Founded in 1979 by Michael McCarty, Michael’s helped launch the careers of some of America’s most influential chefs and remains one of the most influential restaurants in American dining. 

We are seeking an exceptional  Executive Chef  to lead the next chapter of this legendary institution. 

This opportunity is designed for a rising culinary leader — a chef with serious experience, refined taste, strong leadership instincts, and the hunger to take the defining leap into one of the most respected executive chef roles in California hospitality. 

The ideal candidate is not simply looking for another job, but for the opportunity of a lifetime. 

A Rare Career Opportunity 

Michael’s has always been a place where extraordinary talent emerges. 

From Jonathan Waxman to Nancy Silverton, Mark Peel, Sang Yoon, Roy Yamaguchi, Brooke Williamson, and many others, Michael’s has long served as an incubator for the next generation of influential chefs. 

We are now looking for the next chef ready to step into that lineage. 

• Has developed strong experience in acclaimed kitchens 

• Has already earned the respect of peers and teams 

• Is operationally mature and creatively confident 

• Is ready for the responsibility, visibility, and creative challenge of leading an iconic restaurant • Possesses both ambition and humility 

• Understands that hospitality matters as much as cuisine

The Michael’s Philosophy 

Michael’s pioneered a uniquely California style of dining centered on: • Seasonal and market-driven cooking 

• Warm, elegant hospitality 

• Creative freedom 

• Indoor/outdoor California living 

• Art, design, culture, and entertaining 

• Great energy and a sense of occasion 

The Role 

The Executive Chef will: 

• Lead all culinary operations 

• Create evolving seasonal menus rooted in California cuisine • Build, mentor, and inspire a world-class kitchen team 

• Maintain exceptional standards of execution and hospitality • Collaborate closely with ownership on creative direction and long-term vision • Develop strong relationships with local farms, fishermen, and purveyors • Bring fresh ideas while respecting the timeless spirit of Michael’s 

Who You Are 

The ideal candidate: 

• Has trained in serious kitchens with high standards 

• Understands both refinement and restraint 

• Leads with calm confidence and emotional intelligence

• Appreciates the relationship between food, aesthetics, music, architecture, wine, and atmosphere • Thrives under pressure 

• Can inspire young cooks while earning the trust of veteran staff 

• Has the maturity to run a business and the creativity to shape culture 

Why Michael’s 

Michael’s is not simply a restaurant — it is part of the history of American dining. 

The next Executive Chef will have the opportunity to: 

• Lead one of the most influential restaurants in California 

• Help define the next era of California cuisine 

• Work alongside ownership deeply committed to excellence 

• Cook within a celebrated indoor/outdoor setting filled with contemporary art and design • Build a national reputation from one of the industry’s most respected platforms • Join a legacy that continues to shape chefs and restaurants worldwide 

Location 

Michael’s Santa Monica 

1147 3rd Street 

Santa Monica, CA 90403 

To Apply 

Please submit: 

• Resume/CV 

• Cover letter 

• Sample menus or portfolio

• Instagram or website (if applicable) 

Applications and inquiries may be sent confidentially to: 

• View email address on click.appcast.io