Mediterranean Executive Chef

Aba is a distinguished Mediterranean restaurant brand known for its unique culinary fusion that combines traditional Mediterranean flavors with a California influence. The name Aba, meaning father in Hebrew, reflects the restaurant's deep cultural roots and commitment to family-inspired dining experiences. With a growing presence across major cities including Austin, Texas; Chicago, Illinois; and Nashville, Tennessee, Aba is set to expand further with a highly anticipated new location opening in the Design District of Dallas, Texas, slated for late 2026. This expansion underlines the restaurant group's reputation for delivering innovative dining concepts and outstanding service, all overseen by acclaimed Top Chef Alum and Chef Partner CJ Jacobson, whose modern approach to Mediterranean cooking elevates the brand's culinary offerings. Aba is more than just a restaurant; it is a vibrant destination that showcases rare spirits and wines curated from lesser-known Mediterranean regions, offering a comprehensive beverage program that complements its extraordinary menu.

The Executive Chef role at Aba Dallas is a pivotal leadership position designed for a dynamic culinary professional with at least two years of executive-level experience. This position reports within the framework of Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants, a highly respected culinary-driven company committed to fostering talent and creating a nurturing workplace culture. The Executive Chef will be entrusted with overseeing all back-of-house operations to ensure smooth, efficient functioning that meets stringent quality and cost standards. Responsibilities will include supervising purchasing and inventory management, rigorous food cost control, and the development and execution of seasonal menus that resonate with Aba's culinary philosophy. The chosen candidate will lead chef teams by example, promoting a Culture of Caring and ensuring exceptional employee training programs in collaboration with divisional trainers and chefs. This role demands proactive management of hiring, onboarding, and development activities to build a cohesive and high-performing BOH team.

Beyond operational excellence, the Executive Chef will be involved in continuous improvement through quarterly audits of back-of-house procedures and systems, fostering innovation by researching and developing new menu items, and partnering with management to maintain accurate recipe books and costing frameworks. Applicants should be prepared to engage regularly with the Managing General Manager and other senior leaders, aligning culinary initiatives with business goals. Flexibility is essential, as the role requires working varied shifts, including early mornings, late nights, and weekends, sometimes across multiple locations with occasional overnight travel.

Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants amplifies this opportunity by offering competitive salaries ranging from $70,000 to $100,000 per year supplemented by a robust benefits package. Employees enjoy quarterly bonuses, paid time off encompassing holidays, personal days, and vacation, comprehensive medical coverage through Blue Cross Blue Shield, dental and vision insurance, life and accident protection, and critical illness insurance. Additional perks include domestic partner benefits, restaurant discounts, and an employee assistance program emphasizing mental health and wellness support. This role not only promises career growth within a reputable company but also a chance to contribute to an innovative, culturally rich dining concept that is rapidly gaining acclaim across the United States.