Executive Chef

The Role:

Executive Leadership, Culinary Strategy, and Operational Ownership The Vibe:

Upscale Casual | Scratch-Kitchen |

Historic Destination Compensation:

Executive-Level Salary + Performance Bonus + Growth Opportunity About the Opportunity Food & Friends has been a cornerstone of downtown Lewisburg for over 3 decades. We are seeking an Executive Kitchen Manager and Head Chef to lead our kitchen into its next chapter. Located in the heart of 'America's Coolest Small Town," our restaurant serves a sophisticated mix of local regulars and global travelers visiting the nearby Greenbrier Resort. This is a career-defining move for a chef who wants creative influence and operational ownership. We aren't just looking for a kitchen manager; we are looking for a steward of our 30-year legacy who has the craftsmanship to refine our American-International menu and the leadership to mentor a high-standard team.

What Makes This Role Unique Creative Authority:

Real influence over menu direction, seasonal specials, and culinary identity.

Operational Ownership:

Autonomy to build systems, manage vendor relationships, a nd drive profitability.

Professional Culture:

The opportunity to shape a kitchen culture based on excellence, mutual respect, and mentorship.

Heritage & Stability:

Lead a well-established, respected institution with a deeply loyal clientele.

Growth Vision:

Strong ownership support with a focus on long-term evolution and excellence.

Key Responsibilities Culinary Leadership:

Oversee all BOH operations, ensuring every plate—from our hand-cut steaks and fresh seafood to our signature 'flower pot bread' —exceeds expectations.

Innovation & Legacy:

Drive seasonal menu development and specials that keep our brand fresh while protecting the consistent quality our guests love.

Business Discipline:

Maintain food cost targets, manage inventory, and optimize kitchen labor and efficiency.

Team Development:

Recruit, train, and inspire a professional culinary team; foster a 'lead by example' environment.

Quality Control:

Maintain rigorous standards for food safety, presentation, and scratch-made consistency. Ideal Candidate Profile We are seeking a chef who combines Craftsmanship + Leadership + Business Discipline.

Qualifications:

5+ years of leadership experience (Executive Chef or Senior Sous) in high-volume, upscale casual or fine dining environments.

Culinary Mastery:

Deep expertise in American-International cuisine, seafood, and steakhouse standards.

Leadership Chops:

A calm, decisive leader who thrives under pressure and prioritizes staff retention.

Operational Acumen:

Strong focus on food cost management and kitchen profitability.

Certifications:

ServSafe Food Protection Manager certification required.

Bonus Strengths:

Experience in destination dining or resort markets. Expertise in seasonal menu planning and farm-to-table sourcing. Passion for community engagement and local culinary events.