Executive Chef

Yard House is a vibrant and dynamic full-service restaurant chain known for its unique blend of great food, classic rock music, and an extensive selection of craft beer. Founded as part of the Darden Family of Restaurants—the world’s largest casual dining company—Yard House has grown to operate over 85 locations nationwide, each offering a lively atmosphere that appeals to guests looking for an exceptional dining experience paired with a friendly and energetic environment. The brand is built on a foundation of craft beer culture and classic rock vibes, eschewing the mundane to foster an environment where both guests and team members can enjoy an engaging and memorable experience. Yard House emphasizes quality, consistency, and community in everything it does, striving to serve delicious food and create a welcoming space for customers and employees alike.

The Executive Chef role at Yard House is a critical leadership position, responsible for overseeing the daily culinary operations of the restaurant. As an Executive Chef, you will lead the kitchen team to ensure that every dish meets Yard House’s high standards for quality and taste. This role demands not only culinary expertise but also strong management skills to inspire, train, and motivate the team to deliver exceptional guest service consistently. Executive Chefs are entrusted with the responsibility to maintain the operational standards that make Yard House a great place to eat and work. Leadership is at the core of this position, as you will develop and implement systems and processes that maximize efficiency, uphold safety and sanitation standards, and maintain inventory and cost controls.

Yard House offers a competitive salary structure that varies by location along with weekly pay and eligibility for quarterly bonuses. The company values work-life balance and limits weekly work hours to a maximum of 50 while guaranteeing two days off weekly. Paid time off starts with up to three weeks off per year within the first year of employment. Employees gain immediate access to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance benefits. Furthermore, Yard House supports financial wellness with a company 401(k) plan, offering a generous match of up to 120% on the first 6% of earnings, alongside a company-paid Retirement Plus benefit contributing 1.5% of eligible salary. Employees also have access to the Darden Employee Stock Purchase Program at a 15% discount after one year of service.

Professional growth is a significant part of the Yard House culture. The company proudly promotes from within, with 99% of General Managers, Executive Chefs, and Directors of Operations having advanced through the ranks, and 60% of Restaurant Managers originating from Team Member positions. Yard House is continually expanding, presenting exciting career advancement opportunities in a fast-paced, supportive work environment where passionate and dedicated leaders can thrive. If you have a passion for culinary excellence, a commitment to outstanding guest service, and the ability to lead and nurture a vibrant kitchen team, the Executive Chef position at Yard House might be your next great career step. Join a company that encourages growth, rewards dedication, and provides the resources you need to succeed while working in an energetic and music-infused atmosphere where boring is never part of the menu.