Head Chef

Head Chef Cafe Figaro Mountain View, CA Job Details Full-time $90,000 - $120,000 a year 18 hours ago Benefits Health insurance Dental insurance 401(k) Paid time off Parental leave Vision insurance 401(k) matching Qualifications Vendor relationship building Menu design Spanish Teamwork Food safety management Quality assurance within food and beverage industry Operations management Supplier management Inventory management Fine dining experience English Managing hospitality teams Sanitation procedures Team development Culinary Arts Kitchen cost control Financial control management Hospitality Management Kitchen staff training Vendor relationship management Recruiting Italian cuisine Materials management in food and beverage Senior level Training Cross-functional collaboration Managing hospitality operations budgets Italian Leadership Team motivation (leadership skill) Communication skills Cross-functional communication Organizational budget management Staff development Hospitality management Full Job Description About Don Giovanni's Don Giovanni's has been a cornerstone of the Mountain View dining scene, celebrated for its commitment to authentic Italian cuisine, warm hospitality, and an atmosphere that feels as welcoming as a family table in Tuscany. With a loyal community following and a reputation built on generations of culinary craft, Don Giovanni's is a destination where exceptional food and genuine connection come together every evening. As we continue to evolve our culinary identity while honoring our roots, we are seeking a visionary Executive Chef to lead our kitchen with passion, precision, and creativity. The Opportunity This is a rare opportunity to step into a leadership role at one of the Bay Area's most beloved Italian restaurants. As Executive Chef, you will own the full culinary vision of Don Giovanni's — from menu development rooted in Italian tradition to daily kitchen operations that reflect the highest standards of quality, consistency, and hospitality. Why You'll Love Working Here Competitive salary commensurate with experience Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance 401(k) retirement plan Generous paid time off and flexible scheduling Maternity and paternity leave Employee dining discounts and industry perks A collaborative, family-first kitchen culture with genuine work-life respect The creative freedom to shape a storied restaurant's next chapter What You'll Do Define and execute Don Giovanni's culinary identity, honoring our Italian heritage while bringing fresh, seasonal creativity to the menu. Oversee all daily kitchen operations with an emphasis on consistency, efficiency, and excellence. Maintain the highest standards of food quality, presentation, and flavor at every service. Recruit, train, and inspire a talented back-of-house team, cultivating a culture of professionalism, growth, and pride in craft. Ensure full compliance with food safety, sanitation, and health regulations at all times. Manage purchasing, vendor relationships, inventory, and food cost controls to drive profitability. Partner closely with front-of-house leadership to deliver seamless, memorable guest experiences. Champion continuous learning, innovation, and professional development within your team. Develop and maintain strong relationships with local farmers, producers, and purveyors to source the finest seasonal ingredients. What You'll Bring Passion for

Italian Cuisine & Hospitality:

A genuine love for Italian culinary traditions and an unwavering commitment to delivering extraordinary guest experiences.

Proven Leadership:

A track record of inspiring and managing high-performing culinary teams in upscale or fine dining environments.

Creative Vision:

The ability to craft menus that are rooted in authenticity yet alive with seasonal inspiration and modern sensibility.

Financial Acumen:

Demonstrated experience managing food costs, labor budgets, and overall kitchen financial performance.

Communication Skills:

Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate across departments and communicate with warmth and clarity.

Experience:

A minimum of three years of progressive culinary leadership, preferably in an Italian or upscale dining setting.

Education:

A degree in Culinary Arts, Hospitality Management, or a related field is preferred — though equivalent experience will always be considered.

Language Skills:

Proficiency in English required; fluency in Spanish or Italian is a meaningful plus in our diverse kitchen. Schedule & Hours Full-time position with flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required by restaurant operations. Physical Requirements This role requires the ability to stand, walk, and work in a fast-paced kitchen environment for extended periods; regularly reach, hear, and handle kitchen tools and equipment; and occasionally lift and move up to 50 pounds. Exposure to heat, cold, and steam is inherent to the role. Reasonable accommodations are available for qualified individuals with disabilities. All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of a comprehensive background check, including verification of employment history, education credentials, and criminal records. Don Giovanni's is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic. We are committed to building a team that reflects the rich diversity of the Mountain View community.

Pay:

$90,000.00 - $120,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Health insurance Paid time off Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person