Chef de Cuisine

BMRS Hospitality Recruitment is a premier Southern California-based firm specializing in the recruitment and placement of top talent within the hospitality industry. They work closely with some of the most acclaimed independent fine dining restaurants in the United States, as well as celebrity chef groups, casual dining establishments, luxury hotels, country clubs, and high-profile private chef clients. Known for their dedication to matching exceptional culinary professionals with esteemed hospitality businesses, BMRS ensures both candidates and employers achieve successful and rewarding partnerships. Their expertise in the field is supported by deep industry connections and a strong understanding of the demands and nuances of fine dining establishments.

The restaurant opportunity being presented is Chef de Cuisine for The Restaurant at JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery, a Michelin-starred tasting menu restaurant located in Paso Robles, California. This restaurant is a distinguished culinary destination, acclaimed for its hyper-seasonal tasting experience that showcases the bounty of the estate’s 26-acre farmstead and locally sourced ingredients from nearby farmers and ranchers. The Restaurant at JUSTIN is recognized with a Michelin Star and Forbes 5-star rating, offering fine dining experiences four nights a week. The cuisine is thoughtfully designed to reflect the terroir of the Central Coast, ensuring every guest enjoys an exceptional and memorable meal that celebrates local flavors.

This position demands a strong commitment to sustainability, as evidenced by the restaurant’s Michelin Green Star status—the only winery in the nation to hold both Michelin Star and Green Star distinctions. The farmstead ecosystem is robust, including an orchard, apiary, and an accessible chef garden, all contributing to the variety of fresh ingredients used in the kitchen. The Chef de Cuisine will lead the nightly dinner service, working closely with the senior leadership team and the farmstead to maintain and elevate the dining experience.

The role offers considerable creative freedom within a structured framework of seasonality and wine pairings. The successful candidate will have a hands-on leadership style and a dedication to fostering a positive kitchen culture grounded in mentorship and professional development. A forward-thinking approach is essential, as the team continually strives to innovate and push the boundaries of the tasting menu, with an eye towards further Michelin recognition and enhancement of the guest experience.

Ideal qualifications include extensive experience working in distinguished kitchens—specifically those with Michelin-star recognition, with preference given to candidates familiar with 2 or 3-star Michelin restaurants. Experience or recognition related to James Beard awards or World’s 50 Best Restaurant listings will also be considered favorably. The role requires relocation to the Paso Robles, CA area, and compensation is competitive, with a base salary ranging from $90,000 to $120,000 depending on experience. Additional compensation includes a bonus program, a comprehensive benefits package featuring medical, dental, and vision coverage, generous paid time off, a 401(k) retirement plan with matching contributions, and relocation assistance.

Candidates are encouraged not to contact JUSTIN Winery or the restaurant directly; all applications will be carefully reviewed by BMRS Hospitality Recruitment, and qualified applicants will be contacted for next steps. This represents an extraordinary opportunity for a passionate and skilled Chef de Cuisine eager to join a celebrated culinary team in one of California’s most picturesque wine regions. With its award-winning reputation, commitment to sustainability, and a rich farm-to-table ethos, The Restaurant at JUSTIN offers both a challenging and rewarding environment for culinary leadership and innovation.