Executive Chef| Little Mama's Italian

Midwood Smokehouse; Charlotte (NC); On-site; USD 86,000 - 105,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus program

Medical Insurance

Dental Insurance

Life Insurance

PTO

Job summary

Little Mama’s Italian in Charlotte is seeking an Executive Chef to lead a high-volume Italian-American kitchen, directing the menu and mentoring a skilled kitchen team.

The role focuses on consistency, creativity, and guest satisfaction, with a strong emphasis on food safety, costs, and seasonal innovation in a vibrant dining venue.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as an Executive Chef or Head Chef in a high-volume, full-service restaurant.
• Strong knowledge of Italian-American cuisine and culinary techniques.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and team-building skills.
• Creativity and passion for menu development.

Responsibilities

• Execute and oversee a diverse, high-quality Italian-American menu.
• Lead, train, and mentor kitchen staff to ensure consistency and excellence.
• Manage food costs, inventory, ordering, and waste control.
• Maintain and exceed food safety and sanitation standards.
• Collaborate with leadership on seasonal features and menu innovation.
• Foster a positive, professional, and team-oriented kitchen culture.

Skills

Executive leadership

Menu development

Cost control

Team mentoring

Food safety

Education

ServSafe Certification

Job description

Little Mama’s Italian| Executive Chef

Since its debut in 2020, Little Mama’s Italian—inspired by the nostalgic Italian-American restaurants of the 1960s and 70s—has become one of Charlotte’s premier Italian dining destinations. A sister concept to the beloved Mama Ricotta’s, Little Mama’s delivers classic charm, heartfelt hospitality, and elevated Italian-American cuisine in a vibrant, welcoming setting.

Why Choose a Career with FS Food Group?

• Competitive base salary: up to $95,000 depending on experience
• Achievable monthly bonus structure
• 100% employer-paid Medical, Dental, and Life Insurance
• Paid Time Off (PTO) starting at 6 months

Executive Chef Responsibilities

• Execute and oversee a diverse, high-quality Italian-American menu
• Lead, train, and mentor kitchen staff to ensure consistency and excellence
• Manage food costs, inventory, ordering, and waste control
• Maintain and exceed food safety and sanitation standards
• Collaborate with leadership on seasonal features and menu innovation
• Foster a positive, professional, and team-oriented kitchen culture

What We’re Looking For

• Proven experience as an Executive Chef or Head Chef in a high-volume, full-service restaurant
• Strong knowledge of Italian-American cuisine and culinary techniques
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and team-building skills
• Creativity and passion for menu development
• Solid understanding of food cost control and kitchen operations
• ServSafe / Food Safety Manager Certification (preferred)
• A genuine passion for hospitality and delivering memorable guest experiences

Be Part of Our Story

At Little Mama’s Italian, we’re more than a restaurant—we’re a destination for those who love authentic Italian-American cuisine and warm, genuine hospitality. If you’re a driven culinary leader who thrives in a supportive, fast-paced environment, we’d love to meet you.

Little Mama’s Italian Kitchen is inspired by the old classic Italian restaurants in New England from the 60s and 70s. Really well done classics, without pretense. A stiff cocktail and a bowl of fresh pasta or a knob of just-made mozzarella are the simple but elegant menu items to look out for here. But the broiled steak will bowl you over too.