Executive Chef

Company Description

A Central Coast legend reborn. From its earliest incarnation in 1886 as a popular stagecoach stop during California's Gold Rush, to its years as a surreptitious hangout through Prohibition, The Inn at Mattei's Tavern has long held a fabled place in Central Coast lore. Revered and raucously enjoyed for generations, the beloved landmark is the definitive luxury destination in the Santa Ynez Valley.

Job Description

We are seeking an Executive Chef to lead our culinary operations, offering an elevated, personalized dining experience for guests of Inn at Mattei's Tavern. This individual will have the opportunity to shape the culinary identity of the hotel, develop menus that reflect our luxury brand, and inspire our kitchen staff to deliver exceptional, memorable dining experiences. The Executive Chef will collaborate with our leadership team to ensure that every meal served aligns with the hotel's sophisticated and guest-centric standards.

• Culinary Leadership: Oversee all aspects of kitchen operations, including menu development, food preparation, quality control, and staff management. Ensure that every dish served reflects the high culinary standards of the hotel.

• Menu Creation & Innovation: Develop seasonally inspired, creative menus that showcase local ingredients and reflect the diverse tastes of our discerning guests. Incorporate sustainable, farm-to-table practices and innovative techniques to create a memorable dining experience.

• Staff Management & Development: Lead, mentor, and motivate a team of chefs and kitchen staff, fostering a collaborative environment. Ensure continuous staff development through training, and maintain a high standard of performance in all kitchen functions.

• Quality Control & Consistency: Ensure consistency in food quality, presentation, and flavor. Implement systems for regular inventory checks, food safety, sanitation protocols, and kitchen cleanliness.

• Guest Experience: Maintain a strong focus on guest satisfaction, including direct interaction with guests when necessary to receive feedback, and ensure all special dietary needs and preferences are met.

• Budgeting & Cost Control: Develop and maintain food cost and labor budgets, monitor inventory, and ensure proper ordering and purchasing to maintain cost efficiency while delivering high-quality meals.

• Collaboration with Other Departments: Work closely with the hotel's management, front-of-house staff, and the marketing team to plan special events, promotions, and to maintain the brand's high standards.

Qualifications

Proven experience as an Executive Chef or in a senior culinary leadership role, preferably in a luxury hotel, boutique resort, or fine dining establishment.

A passion for creating exceptional culinary experiences, with a deep understanding of modern and traditional cooking techniques.

Expertise in managing kitchen operations, including inventory, budget control, and team leadership.

Strong knowledge of regional and seasonal ingredients and the ability to create inventive, contemporary menus.

Ability to thrive in a high-pressure environment while maintaining a calm, organized demeanor.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a track record of fostering a positive, high-performing team environment.

Culinary degree or equivalent professional training preferred.

The targeted compensation range for this full time year round, exempt position is $125,000 to $150,000. The position offers a competitive compensation package presented by Auberge Resorts Collection.

Additional Information

Auberge Resorts Collection is a portfolio of extraordinary hotels, resorts, residences, and private clubs. While each property is unique, all share a crafted approach to luxury and bring the soul of the locale to life through captivating design, exceptional cuisine and spas, and gracious yet unobtrusive service. With hotels and resorts across three continents, Auberge invites guests to create unforgettable stories in some of the world's most desirable destinations. Please visit aubergeresorts.com to learn more about our Collection. Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, Linkedin, Facebook and Pinterest: @AubergeResorts and #AlwaysAuberge.

Railway Jonata LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer, M/F/D/V. Railway Jonata LLC provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all team members and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Railway Jonata LLC complies with applicable state and local laws governing non-discrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Railway Jonata LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer, M/F/D/V. Railway Jonata LLC provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all team members and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Railway Jonata LLC complies with applicable state and local laws governing non-discrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.