Chef de Cuisine

Dallas, TX, USA|Onsite

Job Overview

Employment Type

Full-time

Compensation

Salary

Range $70,000.00 - $90,000.00

Work Schedule

Flexible

Weekend Shifts

Benefits

competitive salary

Quarterly bonus

Paid Time Off

401(k)

Blue Cross Blue Shield Medical Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Life insurance

Accident protection

critical illness insurance

Domestic Partner Benefits

Restaurant Discounts

Employee assistance program

Job Description

Aba is an acclaimed Mediterranean restaurant brand with a distinctive California influence, and it is scheduled to open its new location in the vibrant Design District of Dallas, Texas, in late 2026. With existing restaurants in Austin, TX, Chicago, IL, and Nashville, TN, Aba presents a culinary experience crafted by Top Chef alum and Chef Partner CJ Jacobson. Jacobson's innovative approach marries traditional Mediterranean flavors with modern techniques and influences, creating a fresh and dynamic menu that celebrates the rich culinary heritage of the Mediterranean region alongside Californian sophistication. Aba places a strong emphasis on unique beverage offerings that highlight spirits and rare wines from lesser-known Mediterranean regions, complementing its food with carefully curated drink selections that enhance the overall dining experience.

The upcoming Dallas location promises to continue Aba's commitment to excellence and creativity, offering guests not just a meal but a cultural journey through the Mediterranean lens seen through the eyes of a celebrated chef. The restaurant is part of the Lettuce Entertain You family of restaurants, a culinary-driven restaurant company known for its commitment to people, diversity, and fostering unique talents across more than 130 locations. Lettuce Entertain You embraces a Culture of Caring that prioritizes the growth, well-being, and career development of its employees, providing rewarding benefits and ongoing training opportunities to its teams.

Aba Dallas is currently seeking an experienced Chef de Cuisine to lead the kitchen team. This role requires a minimum of two years of chef experience and calls for a culinary leader capable of managing the back-of-house (BOH) operations effectively. The Chef de Cuisine will be responsible for overseeing food preparation and cooking processes, managing inventory, updating pricing, and leading menu changes, all while maintaining the highest standards of food quality and kitchen efficiency. This leadership role involves guiding and mentoring kitchen staff, fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment consistent with the Culture of Caring, and ensuring smooth communication between the front-of-house (FOH) and BOH teams.

The position offers a competitive salary range of $70,000 to $90,000 annually, along with quarterly bonuses, comprehensive health benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance, life and accident protection, paid time off, and access to a 401(k) plan. Additional perks include domestic partner benefits, restaurant discounts, and an employee assistance program focused on mental health and wellness. The Chef de Cuisine at Aba Dallas will play a crucial role in setting the tone for culinary excellence and operational efficiency while contributing to a positive and inclusive workplace culture. This is an excellent opportunity for a dedicated culinary professional eager to advance their career within a prestigious and expanding restaurant group.

Job Requirements

2 years of chef experience
knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards
ability to work flexible shifts including early mornings, late nights, and weekends
strong leadership and communication skills
ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds
experience with inventory management and ordering
willingness to work at multiple sites and travel if necessary

Job Qualifications

4+ years of Chef de Cuisine experience in a full-service restaurant
ability to lead and develop teams
skilled in managing BOH systems

Job Duties

Lead the opening shift process including food orders, inventory and price updates
receiving and storage
overseeing inspections
and leading and managing menu changes
Lead, direct and ensure effective and efficient BOH operations including food prep and cooking
ensure adequate inventory levels of food and supplies
and supervise kitchen employees
Provide guidance and leadership to hourly and management teams while fostering our Culture of Caring
Track and control food cost
purchase and order food products and supplies for the restaurant including daily product order
Partner with General Manager and/or designated managers/chefs to create prep lists throughout the day
assign production duties to BOH staff
Perform regular line checks throughout the day to ensure quality of all menu items
Partner with GM and/or designated managers/chefs to regularly review and maintain recipe books
Ensure effective communication of food production and timing issues, needs, and special requests between FOH and BOH
Partner with GM and management team to interview, hire, onboard, train, supervise and develop all BOH employees and teams
Model and promote teamwork across all teams
Use tact and good judgment when dealing with guests, vendors and employees, and respond with patience and courtesy
Work a variety of days and shifts including early mornings, late nights and weekends at multiple sites with or without overnight travel as needed
Move and lift up to 10 pounds, frequently move and/or lift up to 25 pounds, occasionally move and/or lift up to 50 pounds