Executive Chef

About This Role

This Executive Chef position is for a creative and passionate culinary leader who will help shape and maintain the culinary identity of Whiskey & Vine while leading the daily operation of the kitchen. The role involves working alongside the Corporate Executive Chef to elevate the guest experience through exceptional food, thoughtful presentation, and consistent execution.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and elevate the culinary standards and vision of Whiskey & Vine
• Ensure every dish meets standards for flavor, freshness, presentation, and consistency
• Contribute creative ideas for menu development, seasonal offerings, daily features, private dining, and special events
• Work with the Corporate Executive Chef on recipes, plating, menu execution, and continued development of the food program
• Lead, train, and inspire the culinary team while creating a culture of pride, accountability, and craftsmanship
• Oversee high-quality food preparation for dinner service, brunch, private events, and special functions
• Evaluate ingredients, preparation techniques, and finished dishes with a constant focus on quality
• Manage staffing, food cost, labor, purchasing, inventory, and waste without compromising standards
• Maintain proper food safety, sanitation, storage, and kitchen organization
• Work closely with front-of-house leadership to deliver a seamless and memorable guest experience

Requirements

• Minimum of 2 years of culinary leadership or supervisory experience in a full-service restaurant
• Strong palate and understanding of flavor development, technique, and presentation
• Strong understanding of food cost, labor, inventory, ordering, and waste control
• Advanced knowledge of food safety and sanitation requirements
• ServSafe certification or willingness to obtain
• Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills

Nice to have:

• Experience in an upscale, chef-driven, or high-volume restaurant
• Experience with menu development, seasonal features, or recipe creation
• Culinary education, advanced culinary training, or equivalent professional experience

Benefits

• Opportunity for advancement
• Paid time off
• Bonus based on performance
• Employee discounts

About the Company

Whiskey & Vine is located in the heart of Lafayette, Louisiana, and brings together carefully crafted cuisine, exceptional wine and spirits, and live jazz and blues in an upscale yet welcoming atmosphere. Its kitchen celebrates bold Southern flavors, Louisiana ingredients, and thoughtfully prepared dishes designed to create a memorable dining experience.