Executive Chef

Executive Chef for Exciting New Restaurant Opening 2026! Position:Executive Chef - Downtown – San Diego, California Location:Downtown San Diego as part of the soon to open Le Meridien Pinnacle Hotel. Employment Type:Full Time Start Date: – tbd We’re searching for an ambitious, creative, and experiencedExecutive Chefto lead the kitchen team for our soon-to-launch Italian inspired restaurant & hotel banquet space. This is a unique opportunity to bring your culinary vision to life, shape the opening menu, and set the standard for an exceptional dining experience from day one. Our new restaurant will be integrated into our new Le Meridien Hotel downtown San Diego and you will be part of establish our restaurant concept. The Role: As our Executive Chef, you’ll be the driving force behind our culinary identity. You’ll have full ownership of menu development, kitchen operations, and team leadership. From sourcing top-quality ingredients to crafting unforgettable dishes, your expertise will shape every aspect of our food program. Responsibilities: · Help design our restaurant concept and work on initial menus. · Hire, train, and lead the back-of-house team · Establish kitchen protocols and opening procedures · Maintain high standards for food quality, presentation, and consistency · Oversee inventory, cost control, and vendor relationships · Ensure all food safety and sanitation guidelines are strictly followed · Collaborate with ownership and front-of-house leadership on concept execution Requirement: · Certification of culinary training, a degree in Culinary Arts or apprenticeship, Red Seal and journeyman certification · Minimum 5 years of experience in an executive role in an upscale casual or fine dining kitchen in San Diego. · Have Direct experience in the San Diego culinary seen, with Italian food and hotel conference space. (prefer currently working in market) · Strong leadership, communication, and team-building skills · Proven ability to manage costs, inventory, and kitchen budgets · Passion for hospitality and creating memorable guest experiences · Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment · Experience in opening a successful restaurant. · Culinary degree preferred, but not required · Experience in Italian, French, or Western Mediterranean cuisine an asset. What We Offer: · Competitive salary + performance-based incentives · Creative freedom to help shape a new culinary concept · Supportive ownership with a strong commitment to quality and culture · Opportunity to build and grow your own team Job Type: Full-time Pay: From $90,000.00 per year Ability to Commute: • San Diego, CA 92101 (Required) Ability to Relocate: • San Diego, CA 92101: Relocate before starting work (Required) Work Location: In person