Executive Chef - Daylene's Supper Club

Kalahari Resorts; Wisconsin Dells (WI); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Kalahari Resorts is seeking an Executive Chef for Daylene's Supper Club, blending classic Wisconsin cuisine with contemporary flair. This role encompasses menu development and team leadership, while committing to quality in a vibrant culinary atmosphere, backed by a competitive salary and extensive benefits.

Benefits

Above-industry average compensation

Promotion from within

Full benefits for full-time associates

401(k) with company match

Wellness programs

Resort discounts and appreciation events

Paid time off

Qualifications

• At least 5 years of culinary leadership experience.
• Passion for traditional Midwestern flavors and modern techniques.
• Experience in cost control and kitchen management.

Responsibilities

• Oversee kitchen operations ensuring cleanliness and efficiency.
• Lead, train, and mentor culinary staff.
• Manage food costs, inventory, and vendor relationships.

Skills

Culinary Leadership

Cost Control

Team Leadership

Communication

Education

Culinary Degree or Equivalent Experience

Job description

Description

Introducing Daylene's Supper Club, a captivating culinary destination nestled on the shores of Lake Delton within the exquisite Dawn Manor Resort. Paying homage to the rich history of Wisconsin supper clubs while infusing a contemporary twist, Daylene's invites you to experience a modern take on classic Wisconsin cuisine.

Step into our welcoming ambiance, reminiscent of a bygone era, with dimly lit interiors and warm wood paneling. Revel in the comfort of plush seating as you indulge in generous portions of luxurious comfort food.

Start your evening with a toast, perhaps with our signature Brandy Old Fashioned, Wisconsin's unofficial state drink, expertly crafted to perfection. And don't miss out on our famous ice cream drinks, like the Grasshopper or Brandy Alexander, a delightful way to round off your supper club experience.

Our menu reflects the essence of Wisconsin's culinary heritage, elevated with contemporary flair. From wood-fired pizzas and hearty burgers to Daylene's specialties featuring Lake Walleye and Lobster Pot Pie, every dish is crafted to delight and inspire.

For dinner, savor starters like Norwegian Meatballs or Hot Honey Deviled Eggs, followed by wood-fired steaks including Filet Mignon and Bone-In Ribeye. Don't miss the Table Side Prime Rib Cart, a spectacle of culinary craftsmanship.

Indulge your senses with desserts like our Table Side Baked Alaskan, a perfect finale to your supper club feast.

Daylene's Supper Club at Dawn Manor Resort promises an unforgettable dining experience, where tradition meets innovation against the stunning backdrop of Lake Delton. Join us for an evening of great food, warm hospitality, and timeless charm.

We are now seeking an Executive Chef to lead the culinary heartbeat of Daylene’s. This isn’t just another kitchen job—it’s a chance to put your signature on an elevated Wisconsin dining experience.

What You’ll Do

As Executive Chef, you’ll bring Daylene’s vision to life through menu development, team leadership, and an unwavering commitment to quality. You’ll be responsible for:

• Execute a menu that has been designed for you – from Kalahari corporate

• Overseeing kitchen operations and ensuring cleanliness, consistency, and efficiency

• Leading, training, and mentoring culinary staff, from prep cooks to sous chefs

• Managing food costs, inventory, and vendor relationships

• Executing memorable tableside presentations like Prime Rib Carving and Baked Alaska

• Collaborating with leadership to ensure a seamless front-and-back-of-house experience

What We’re Looking For

• At least 5 years of culinary leadership experience, preferably in a fine dining, steakhouse, or supper club environment

• Passion for both traditional Midwestern flavors and modern culinary techniques

• Ability to work flexible shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays

• Experience in cost control, purchasing, and kitchen labor management

• Strong communication and leadership skills, and a genuine joy for creating exceptional guest experiences

This Position Is Slated to Be Filled in Q1 of 2026

We’re taking our time to find the right chef—a visionary who leads with both creativity and humility. This process will include discovery calls, casual conversations, and in-person interviews as we get closer to launch.

Why Join Us

• A creative, collaborative atmosphere that respects your craft

• The chance to be part of a brand-new concept with strong resort backing

• Competitive salary and benefits

• Access to Kalahari’s extensive perks and professional development programs

Perks & Benefits Include

• Above-industry average compensation

• Promotion from within

• Full benefits for full-time associates

• 401(k) with company match

• Wellness programs

• Resort discounts, appreciation events, paid time off, and more

If your background is what we’re seeking and your personality is one of service to others, please consider joining our growing and industry leading team.

Here is a link to some additional property information and an artist’s rendering of the restaurant: Kalahari Treehouse Collection at Dawn Manor | Wisconsin | Kalahari Resorts & Conventions

Company Mission

We promise to deliver products and services beyond expectations.

Recruiting Vision

We understand that the individual is the most important element in the recruitment process. In mirroring the spirit of the brand, we promise authenticity, curiosity, honesty, timeliness, and follow-through. Whether a current opening exists or not, relationship building is critical to the success of our company.

A Sampling of Our Benefits

Our team enjoys a comprehensive and attractive benefits plan:

• Above-industry average compensation

• Promotion from within

• Mental, Financial, Physical, Work/Life and Career wellness initiatives

• Educational opportunities

• Full and varied benefit package available for full-time associates

• 401(k) with company match

• Appreciation days, parties, and retention programs

• Paid time off and holiday pay.

• Discounts and resort perks
  

Kalahari Resorts & Conventions frequently receives awards and accolades for taking care of its associates and our guests. Recognition includes Forbes America’s Best Midsize Employers, Condé Nast Traveler’s #1 World’s Coolest Indoor Waterparks, Best Family-Friendly Meeting Hotel and Resort in Smart Meeting’s Smart Stars Awards, Parents’ Magazine Kids’ Travel Award Winner and TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards.

Current locations include Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin (2000); Sandusky, Ohio (2005); Pocono Manor, Pennsylvania (2015); Round Rock, Texas (2020) and Spotsylvania County, Virginia (2026).

Kalahari Resorts & Conventions is an equal opportunity employer.