Executive Chef: Upscale European Kitchen Leader

Lombardi Family Concepts, Inc.; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 90,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Lombardi Family Concepts, Inc. in Houston, TX is seeking an Executive Chef to lead a high-end, Mediterranean-inspired kitchen. The role requires hands-on culinary leadership, menu development, and a commitment to delivering an exceptional guest experience.

You will oversee food preparation, plating standards, inventory management, cost control, staff training, and collaboration with management on seasonal menus and events, while maintaining service excellence and a positive kitchen culture.

Qualifications

• Strong culinary expertise in French and Mediterranean cuisines, including scratch cooking and menu development.
• Experience opening an upscale restaurant, including kitchen development, menu design and vendor negotiations.
• Proficiency in kitchen leadership, staff management, scheduling, and team training.
• Knowledge of food safety, sanitation standards, and regulatory compliance in restaurant operations.
• Experience in inventory management, vendor relations, and food cost control.
• Ability to maintain high quality and consistency in food preparation, presentation, and taste during peak service.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills with front‑of‑house and management teams.
• Previous experience as an Executive Chef or senior Sous Chef in a full‑service or upscale restaurant environment.
• Culinary degree or formal culinary training preferred; equivalent professional experience considered.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as required by restaurant operations.

Responsibilities

• Lead all kitchen operations and ensure an outstanding dining experience.
• Oversee menu execution, food preparation, plating standards, and quality control.
• Manage, train, and schedule kitchen staff; promote food safety and sanitation.
• Monitor inventory, ordering, and cost control.
• Collaborate with management on seasonal menus, specials, and events.
• Recruiting, onboarding, and developing culinary team members to foster a positive kitchen culture.

Skills

Leadership

Menu development

Staff management

Food safety

Vendor relations

Cost control

Education

Culinary degree or equivalent

Job description

Lombardi Family Concepts, Inc. in Houston, TX is seeking an Executive Chef to lead a high-end, Mediterranean-inspired kitchen. The role requires hands-on culinary leadership, menu development, and a commitment to delivering an exceptional guest experience.

You will oversee food preparation, plating standards, inventory management, cost control, staff training, and collaboration with management on seasonal menus and events, while maintaining service excellence and a positive kitchen culture.