Chef de Cuisine - Private Dinners (Luxury Events)

Villa Kitchen is a chef-led collective renowned for orchestrating intimate, high-end dinners and private events in luxurious villas, grand estates, and design-forward spaces. This distinguished group marries culinary excellence with deep respect for provenance by working closely with BIPOC and Indigenous growers, fisherfolk, and artisans. Their commitment to sourcing from diverse, ethical producers enables them to tell compelling cultural food stories through refined and modern menus that emphasize authenticity and creativity. As part of their mission, Villa Kitchen embraces sustainability and celebrates heritage by crafting dishes that serve as both a sensory delight and a meaningful narrative.

The opportunity at Villa Kitchen represents a chance to join a passionate team dedicated to delivering an exceptional dining experience that marries artistry, hospitality, and story-telling. The role is designed for a disciplined and ambitious chef who is driven by ownership and a keen eye for detail. This position places the chef at the center stage to showcase their culinary talents while upholding the highest standards of hospitality in collaboration with a small, dedicated team. The ideal candidate thrives in environments where each dish and moment is carefully curated to be both visually stunning and delicious, engaging guests in an unforgettable gastronomic experience.

As a core member of this team, the chef will have responsibilities that span from crafting seasonal, multi-course menus to managing on-site event execution. They will create dishes that highlight origin and craftsmanship, including accommodating vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free preferences. Strong relationships with small farms and specialty purveyors are crucial to sourcing responsibly, and the chef will articulate these connections through short "provenance cards" for each dish, enhancing the guests' appreciation of the food's story and heritage.

In addition, the chef will oversee the entire production process, including tastings, prep, packing, plating, and maintaining impeccable service flow during events. They will curate the tabletop experience with handcrafted ceramics and linens, ensuring every detail exudes editorial luxury. Leadership is also a key part of this role, as the chef will manage a small event team—assistants and servers—setting kitchen standards and timelines to deliver seamless, high-quality results.

The role demands a person who maintains rigorous standards in food safety, cost management, and post-event procedures such as inventory, cleaning, and feedback documentation. The chef is expected to represent the Villa Kitchen brand with warmth, professionalism, and exceptional client communication skills. This job requires someone who is systems-minded, thrives under pressure, and cares deeply about mise en place, timing, and consistent plating. Beyond technical skill, the ideal candidate is a storyteller who translates heritage, technique, and sourcing into a compelling guest experience. A gracious host comfortable both behind the pass and in front of guests is essential.

To qualify, candidates should have 3 to 5 plus years of experience in fine dining, high-end catering, private chefing, or roles such as chef de partie or sous chef. A portfolio showcasing plated dishes and sample menus is encouraged, along with ServSafe certification or its equivalent. Reliable transport and a valid driver’s license are required, as is the physical ability to lift 40 lbs and work evenings or weekends based on event scheduling. Bonus qualifications include experience with tasting menus, wine pairings, fermentation, preservation, or open-fire cookery.

Villa Kitchen simplifies the application process by accepting submissions exclusively through ZippyApp, a convenient platform designed for easy application with one-click functionality. Candidates are asked to submit a Common Employment Application, Resume, and Cover Letter through ZippyApp. In the cover letter, applicants should briefly describe themselves and explain why they would make a great addition to the Villa Kitchen team. No emails, resumes, or phone calls will be accepted, reflecting the company's streamlined and modern approach to hiring. This is an extraordinary opportunity for chefs eager to elevate their careers and contribute to a collective where culinary artistry meets conscientious sourcing and beautiful hospitality.