Executive Chef - Upscale Restaurant Fine Dining Experience Required

Culinary Leadership & Execution: Oversee all back-of-house culinary operations, including dinner, brunch, special events, and private dining. Ensure exceptional food quality, consistency, flavor, presentation, and proper execution of every dish. Maintain high culinary standards in a fast-paced, high-volume dining environment. Lead kitchen operations during peak service periods, including weekends and special events. Develop innovative, upscale menu items that align with the Confessions brand and dining experience. Establish and maintain standardized recipes, plating guides, and portion controls.

Kitchen Management & Staff Development: Recruit, train, develop, and lead a high-performing culinary team. Establish clear kitchen standards, accountability, professionalism, and discipline. Create efficient kitchen schedules based on projected sales and operational demands. Implement effective prep systems and station organization to improve ticket times and service execution. Conduct regular staff training on cooking techniques, food presentation, sanitation, and consistency. Foster a positive, structured, and results-oriented kitchen culture.

Financial & Operational Management: Monitor and control food costs, kitchen labor, inventory, waste, and purchasing. Maintain accurate inventory systems, ordering procedures, and food cost reporting. Work closely with ownership and management to establish and achieve financial performance goals. Negotiate with vendors and ensure competitive pricing without compromising quality. Analyze menu profitability and implement strategies to improve kitchen performance. Minimize waste, prevent overproduction, and ensure proper product utilization.

Food Safety & Quality Assurance: Ensure full compliance with local health regulations and food safety standards. Maintain exceptional kitchen cleanliness, organization, and sanitation. Enforce proper food storage, labeling, temperature controls, and preparation standards. Conduct daily quality checks to ensure every dish meets company expectations.

Required Qualifications: Minimum 10 years of professional culinary experience, preferably in upscale or fine dining establishments. Minimum 5 years of experience in an Executive Chef, Chef de Cuisine, or senior culinary leadership position. Proven experience managing high-volume restaurants generating significant weekly sales. Advanced knowledge of culinary techniques, proteins, sauces, seafood, and elevated plating presentations. Strong understanding of Southern American, New American, and contemporary upscale cuisine. Demonstrated success in food cost control, inventory management, labor management, and kitchen profitability. Proven ability to build, train, and retain a strong culinary team. Experience developing seasonal menus, brunch offerings, and innovative signature dishes. Excellent communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills. Ability to perform effectively under pressure while maintaining exceptional standards. Flexible availability, including nights, weekends, and holidays. Culinary degree or formal culinary training preferred. ServSafe Manager Certification preferred.

What We're Looking For: We are not simply looking for someone to manage a kitchen. We are looking for a culinary leader who takes ownership, sets the standard, and delivers results. Our ideal Executive Chef is: Creative and passionate about developing memorable dining experiences. Detail-oriented with an uncompromising commitment to consistency and presentation. A strong leader who holds their team accountable. Financially disciplined and knowledgeable about restaurant profitability. Organized, proactive, and capable of executing at a high level during busy service. Confident in their culinary abilities and capable of elevating an existing menu. Committed to excellence, professionalism, and continuous improvement. Why Join Confessions? Confessions Restaurant & Lounge offers an exciting opportunity to lead the culinary direction of a dynamic Houston hospitality destination. You will work directly with ownership and management to elevate our menu, strengthen kitchen operations, develop culinary talent, and help shape the future of our growing restaurant brand.

Compensation: Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.

How to Apply: Qualified candidates should submit an updated résumé detailing their culinary leadership experience, previous restaurant concepts, and professional accomplishments. Applicants with upscale dining experience, strong kitchen leadership skills, and a proven history of high-volume restaurant success will receive priority consideration. Confessions Restaurant & Lounge is an equal opportunity employer.