Join Our Culinary Team
Calabria Italian Kitchen is entering an exciting new chapter. Established in 2016, we are evolving from a successful wood-fired pizzeria into a modern Italian dining destination featuring handcrafted pasta, and elevated Italian cuisine.
We are seeking a passionate, creative, and hands-on Executive Chef who will help lead this transformation. This is an opportunity for a chef who wants to build something special, develop a talented team, and create an exceptional guest experience while working closely with ownership.
Position Summary
The Executive Chef is responsible for all culinary operations, including menu development, food quality, kitchen leadership, cost control, staff development, and maintaining Calabria's high standards of excellence.
This is a working leadership position where the Executive Chef leads by example on the line while developing systems that create consistency and efficiency.
Responsibilities Culinary Leadership
- Design and execute authentic Italian menus featuring fresh pasta, premium proteins, seasonal specials, and signature dishes.
- Maintain exceptional food quality, consistency, and presentation.
- Develop recipes, portion standards, and plating guides.
- Introduce seasonal menu features and chef specials.
- Continuously improve recipes and kitchen procedures.
Kitchen Operations
- Lead daily kitchen operations with professionalism and urgency.
- Build schedules that maximize productivity and labor efficiency.
- Ensure timely execution during lunch and dinner service.
- Maintain cleanliness and organization throughout the kitchen.
- Oversee equipment maintenance and kitchen safety.
Team Leadership
- Recruit, train, mentor, and inspire kitchen staff.
- Build a culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
- Conduct performance evaluations and coaching sessions.
- Develop future kitchen leaders.
Financial Management
- Control food cost and minimize waste.
- Manage inventory and purchasing.
- Build relationships with vendors.
- Analyze weekly food cost reports and labor performance.
- Maintain profitability while delivering exceptional quality.
Food Safety
- Ensure compliance with all local health department regulations.
- Maintain ServSafe and sanitation standards.
- Implement proper receiving, storage, labeling, and rotation procedures.
Qualifications
- Minimum 5 years as an Executive Chef or Executive Sous Chef
- Experience in upscale or fine dining Italian cuisine preferred
- Strong knowledge of fresh pasta production and authentic Italian cooking techniques
- Experience with wood-fired pizza is a plus
- Proven leadership and team-building skills
- Strong understanding of food costing, labor management, and inventory control
- Excellent organizational and communication skills
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-volume environment
- ServSafe Certification (or ability to obtain)
What We're Looking For
We are searching for someone who:
- Has a passion for authentic Italian cuisine
- Leads with integrity and professionalism
- Takes pride in mentoring and developing people
- Thrives under pressure
- Is creative while respecting classic Italian traditions
- Pays attention to every detail
- Treats the restaurant as if it were their own
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive salary based on experience
- Performance-based bonus opportunities
- Paid vacation
- Dining discounts
- Career growth opportunities
- Creative freedom in menu development
- Opportunity to help build one of Middle Tennessee's premier Italian restaurants
About Calabria Italian Kitchen
Established in 2016, Calabria Italian Kitchen has built a reputation for exceptional hospitality and authentic Italian flavors. We are now creating a modern Italian dining experience centered around handcrafted pasta, premium ingredients, outstanding service, and an unforgettable guest experience.
If you're passionate about Italian cuisine and want to be part of building something truly special, we'd love to meet you.
Apply today and help shape the future of Calabria Italian Kitchen.
Pay: $63,738.84 - $76,760.75 per year
Benefits:
Work Location: In person
