Head Chef

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A thriving, independently owned restaurant in the Buffalo Southtowns is looking for a talented Head Chef to oversee all culinary operations. This is a discreet search for a leadership position at a well-loved neighborhood establishment with a loyal customer base. The ideal candidate will be a strong leader with a passion for fresh, creative cuisine and the ability to manage a busy kitchen from prep to service.

What You’ll Do

• Direct day-to-day kitchen operations, ensuring consistency and excellence in every dish
• Design and implement seasonal menus with a focus on scratch cooking and locally sourced ingredients
• Recruit, train, and mentor kitchen staff; create a culture of professionalism and teamwork
• Build weekly schedules and manage staffing levels in line with labor targets
• Control food and labor costs, maximizing efficiency while maintaining quality
• Oversee inventory, purchasing, and vendor partnerships
• Ensure compliance with all food safety, sanitation, and workplace standards
• Partner with front-of-house leadership to deliver seamless guest experiences

What We’re Looking For

• At least 5 years of culinary leadership experience in a full-service, high-volume restaurant
• A proven record of menu development and execution, including specials and seasonal rotations
• Solid understanding of BOH financials, including food cost, ordering, and labor management
• A motivating leader who thrives in fast-paced environments and builds strong teams
• ServSafe certification (or willingness to obtain promptly)
• A genuine passion for food, hospitality, and guest satisfaction

The Right Fit

• Creative and detail-oriented, with a commitment to consistency and quality
• Strong communicator who leads by example
• Comfortable managing a team of 10+ in a busy kitchen
• Equally skilled in hands-on cooking and the administrative side of the role

What We Offer

• Paid time off and vacation benefits
• Bonus opportunities based on performance and cost control
• Health insurance options
• Autonomy and creative input over menus
• Career growth potential within a respected, established restaurant

At Goodwin Recruiting, we are committed to our core values and providing world class customer service. We are committed to helping our clients navigate and comply with the complex and ever-changing labor laws as well as help ensure that in every hiring decision, internally and with our client partners, that all viable candidates are considered, and the most qualified candidate is offered the role. We evaluate the knowledge, skills, and abilities that meet the requirements of the position and aim to open doors and change lives. We value all people, understanding that uniqueness and diversity foster a stronger team that is innovative and brings varying perspectives to the table. We put our money where our mouth is and are proud of our efforts to identify a broad slate of candidates, with many hiring success stories to share.

JOB ID: 164919

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Rob Rush

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