Head Chef

Buona Forchetta; San Clemente (CA); On-site; USD 41,328 - 52,348; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Supportive team environment

Opportunity for creativity in menu development

Job summary

A beloved Italian restaurant in San Diego is seeking an experienced Head Chef to lead kitchen operations. The ideal candidate will have over 10 years of experience in high-volume kitchens, a passion for Italian cuisine, and strong team management skills. This role involves maintaining high standards, managing inventory, and developing seasonal menus. Join a team that values community and culinary excellence.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years’ experience as a Chef in high-volume restaurants.
• Proven leadership and team management skills.
• Strong understanding of inventory, ordering, and kitchen equipment maintenance.

Responsibilities

• Ensure all kitchen operations meet high standards of quality.
• Manage inventory and supplier relationships.
• Oversee ghost kitchen operations and maintain kitchen equipment.

Skills

Culinary leadership

Team management

Inventory control

Menu development

Kitchen equipment maintenance

Job description

Base Pay Range

$30.00/hr - $38.00/hr

Location

San Diego, CA

Position

Head Chef

Overview

At Buona Forchetta, where Italian tradition meets San Diego soul, we serve more than just Neapolitan-style pizza and housemade pasta — we serve joy. As part of our dedication to culinary excellence, we are searching for a passionate and experienced Head Chef to lead our kitchen with heart, precision, and creativity.

Who You Are

You’re a proven culinary leader with at least 10 years of experience in high-volume kitchens, a deep respect for traditional Italian cuisine, and a passion for managing teams with integrity and enthusiasm. You thrive in fast-paced environments and are always looking to elevate both the menu and the morale of your kitchen.

Responsibilities

• Ensure all kitchen operations meet Buona Forchetta’s high standards of quality, hygiene, and cleanliness
• Manage inventory, control stock levels, and handle supplier relationships to ensure top-quality ingredients
• Oversee our ghost kitchen operations and ensure consistency in off-site orders
• Maintain kitchen equipment and coordinate necessary repairs
• Collaborate with the General Manager on staffing issues, including attendance, scheduling, and disciplinary actions
• Develop new dishes in line with Buona Forchetta’s culinary vision
• Create and manage weekly kitchen schedules tailored to seasonal restaurant needs
• Lead by example and foster a supportive, team-focused kitchen culture
• Ensure guests enjoy an unforgettable culinary experience, every time

Requirements

• Minimum 10 years’ experience as a Chef in high-volume restaurants
• Proven leadership and team management skills
• Strong understanding of inventory, ordering, and kitchen equipment maintenance
• Experience developing seasonal menus and new recipes within brand guidelines
• Familiarity with ghost kitchen models a plus
• E-Verify participation required

Why Work With Us

Buona Forchetta isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a family. From our first location in South Park to our growing family of trattorias, we value community, consistency, and a shared love of food. You’ll join a team that believes in working hard, supporting each other, and making guests feel right at home.

Apply

Ready to bring your culinary expertise to one of San Diego’s most beloved Italian restaurants? Apply today and become part of the Buona Forchetta legacy.