Head Chef- Orange County

Posted 8 days ago

buona forchettaSan Clemente (CA)

Chefs and Head Cooks Full-Service Restaurants

SENIORITY

Manager

SALARY

$30-$38 per hour

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About the role

Job Description Job Description Join the Buona Forchetta Family Orange County, CA Full Time E-Verify Employer $30-$38 per hour, based on experience At Buona Forchetta, where Italian tradition meets San Diego soul, we serve more than just Neapolitan-style pizza and housemade pasta - we serve joy. As part of our dedication to culinary excellence, we are searching for a passionate and experienced Head Chef to lead our kitchen with heart, precision, and creativity.

Who You Are: You're a proven culinary leader with at least 10 years of experience in high-volume kitchens, a deep respect for traditional Italian cuisine, and a passion for managing teams with integrity and enthusiasm. You thrive in fast-paced environments and are always looking to elevate both the menu and the morale of your kitchen.

Responsibilities:

Ensure all kitchen operations meet Buona Forchetta's high standards of quality, hygiene, and cleanliness
Manage inventory, control stock levels, and handle supplier relationships to ensure top-quality ingredients
Oversee our ghost kitchen operations and ensure consistency in off-site orders
Maintain kitchen equipment and coordinate necessary repairs
Collaborate with the General Manager on staffing issues, including attendance, scheduling, and disciplinary actions
Develop new dishes in line with Buona Forchetta's culinary vision
Create and manage weekly kitchen schedules tailored to seasonal restaurant needs
Lead by example and foster a supportive, team-focused kitchen culture
Ensure guests enjoy an unforgettable culinary experience, every time

Requirements:

Minimum 10 years' experience as a Chef in high-volume restaurants
Proven leadership and team management skills
Strong understanding of inventory, ordering, and kitchen equipment maintenance
Experience developing seasonal menus and new recipes within brand guidelines
Familiarity with ghost kitchen models a plusE-Verify participation required

Why Work With Us? Buona Forchetta isn't just a restaurant - it's a family. From our first location in South Park to our growing family of trattorias, we value community, consistency, and a shared love of food. You'll join a team that believes in working hard, supporting each other, and making guests feel right at home. Ready to bring your culinary expertise to one of San Diego's most beloved Italian restaurants? Apply today and become part of the Buona Forchetta legacy.

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